Warning: Readers are advised that this article contains the name and image of a deceased person
Samoa has launched the 2025 'Stitch with Love: Su'i ma le Alofa' training program, a national initiative supporting practical skills in sewing, embroidery and small business management.
This year's program honours the life and legacy of the late Afa Ah Loo, a Samoan designer whose creativity and generosity transformed Pacific fashion.
Mr Ah Loo, who was fatally shot as an innocent bystander during the 'No Kings' protest in Salt Lake City in 2024, was remembered for his belief that fashion heals, restores and tells the stories of Samoan people.
His vision continues to guide and inspire emerging Pacific designers.
The program, opened at To'oa Salamasina Hall in Apia, builds on a nine-year partnership between the Government of Samoa, the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Hunan International Business Vocational College.
Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister for Women, Community and Social Development, Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo, said the initiative strengthens creativity, resilience and dignity through learning.
"In every stitch, there is alofa, and in every opportunity to learn, there is dignity, confidence and a pathway to progress," Mr Onesemo said.
"This program supports our households to build new livelihoods while honouring the strength and beauty of our culture."
Mr Onesemo said the training aligns with Samoa's national development plans and the Community Sector Plan, aimed at social and economic empowerment of women and vulnerable communities.
He said rural women, who make up 68 per cent of Samoa's economically inactive population, stand to benefit from the program's focus on skills, income generation and sustainable practices.
"Many of our families, especially in rural areas, face challenges," he said.
"Talented women and youth often lack access to training, equipment and market.
"This project is our response."
Chinese Ambassador to Samoa, Fei Mingxing, said the cooperation between China and Samoa in vocational skills reflects the close friendship between the two countries.
He said China hopes the trainees will use their skills to support women's development, cultural expression and the ongoing friendship between both nations.
The seven week training will include 60 participants, 30 in Upolu and 30 in Savai'i, learning sewing, garment construction, embroidery, packaging and business management.
Participants include women, youth, men and persons with disabilities.
The program's targets include 80 per cent completion of all modules, the formation of 10 new sewing groups or microenterprises, and 70 per cent of trainees adopting zero-waste design practices.
First introduced in 2017, 'Su'i ma le Alofa' aims to create pathways for sustainable livelihoods, particularly for rural households.
The initiative contributes to Samoa's Pathway for the Development of Samoa (PDS) 2021/22-2025/26 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Mr Onesemo acknowledged the ongoing partnership with China's Ministry of Commerce and the Hunan International Business Vocational College, saying their support continues to provide technical training and opportunities for Samoan communities.
"This project is community led and partnership driven," he said.
"We thank the Government of the People's Republic of China, its Samoa Embassy and the Hunan International Business Vocational College for continuing to support the development of Samoa and its people."
The program also includes awareness sessions aligned with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, focusing on respectful relationships, leadership and safer communities.
A special tribute to Mr Ah Loo will feature during the Su'i Alofa showcase at the Alofa Runway, celebrating his belief that fashion is a language of love and a gift to the Samoan people.
The Alofa Runway will conclude the event, highlighting new designers and makers using creativity to promote respect, peace and empowerment.
