Tatau Manaia was founded in 2019 by Albert and Becs Tupuola with a vision of creating a space where young people could connect with and celebrate their Samoan heritage. What started as a dance programme has grown into a community where participants learn not only performing arts, but also the language, customs, traditions and values that shape who we are. Through workshops, performances and community events, we continue to inspire the next generation to embrace their culture with confidence and pride.
To empower young people through culture by creating opportunities for learning, belonging and personal growth.
Tatau Manaia aims to:
-Strengthen cultural identity and pride.
- Support confidence, leadership and self-expression
- Encourage positive relationships between young people, whānau and community
- Preserve and share Pacific cultural knowledge and traditions.
- Create opportunities for young people to participate in meaningful community activities.
Tatau Manaia offers a programme that goes beyond learning dance routines. Participants are immersed in Samoan culture through a range of experiences that help them grow both on and off the stage.
Our programme includes:
Traditional and contemporary Samoan dance
Singing and stage performance
Samoan aganu'u
Cultural protocols and customary traditions
Leadership and teamwork
Confidence and personal development
Community performances and workshops
Every session is an opportunity to learn, build friendships and develop skills that last a lifetime.
At Tatau Manaia, we believe that strong culture builds strong character. Our values are the foundation of everything we do, shaping not only the performers our young men become, but the men they grow into.
Fa'aaloalo – Respect
We honour God, our families, our culture and one another. Respect is reflected in our words, our actions and the way we carry ourselves both on and off the stage.
Fa'amaoni – Integrity
We choose to do what is right, even when no one is watching. We encourage honesty, accountability, discipline, and the courage to stand by our values.
Lotogatasi – Unity
We are brothers, not competitors. We celebrate each other's successes, support one another through challenges, and grow stronger together as one family.
Tautua – Service
True leadership begins with serving others. We inspire our young men to use their gifts to positively impact their families, churches, schools, and communities with humility and purpose.