02/06/2026
🇼🇸✨️"E afua mai i mauga tetele manuia o le nu'u" | "From the high mountains are the blessings of the village"
This week, in honour of Samoa Language Week and its theme for 2026, I would like to share the inspiration behind our Malu Collection — a design that has been part of the Islandise journey from the beginning.
Three years before Islandise NZ was created, we travelled to Samoa in July 2019. It was during this time that I received my Malu. Looking back, I can honestly say that it was one of the most profound moments of my life.
For me, receiving the Malu wasn't just about cultural tradition. It was my calling. It was a moment where I felt accepted, not just by those with whom I have shared my life with, but by myself.
The Malu, highly regarded as a La'ei o Samoa, is an honour and a privilege to wear. It represents service towards my family and a sense of protection over them. It represents my ancestors and their legacy. It represents my faith journey and how God is my compass through it all.
Most of all, it reminds me of who I am and where I come from.
Inspired by a journey that will always hold a special place in my heart, I'm proud to highlight this week our Malu Collection.
❤️🇼🇸