Pepsi, the iconic soda brand, not only refreshes with its signature taste but also uplifts communities through impactful initiatives. From supporting local youth programs to environmental sustainability projects, Pepsi champions community growth and welfare, embodying a commitment to making a positive difference wherever it goes. Learn More >
Located adjacent to the Polynesian Cultural Center and across the street from the beach, the Courtyard Oahu North Shore features spacious rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, no resort fees and is the perfect launchpad to all the North Shore has to offer. To book your stay, Learn More >
Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 121 airports across 11 countries, including 5 destinations across the Hawaiian Islands: Honolulu, Kahului, Lihue, Kona, and Hilo. Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2021, Southwest took flight in 1971 to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline1. To book your low fare to Hawaii, Learn More >
Edward Enterprises Inc. is the largest commercial printing company in the State of Hawai’i. An employee owned company specializing in offset and digital printing, mailing, marketing support services, database management, and folding carton packaging. Learn more >
An award-winning entertainment company that specializes in custom show presentations and services. Their shows are fast-paced, interactive, and sure to entertain audiences of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Vist their website at maluproductions.com for more information
Pacific inspired apparel for men, women and children who enjoy the island lifestyle. Owners Aaron and Cindy Forsgren started Tanoa in 2009 while running the family business in American Samoa and expanded to Hawaii. Visit their website at www.tanoa.shop
Originally from Samoa, they married and served as missionaries for 13 years before immigrating to the US where they settled in Orange County, CA. They are beloved parents of the Tafua clan of 15 children. Daughter Lolohea and her husband Sagato Faiivae – a retired fireknife dancer and knife designer created this legacy sponsorship to honor them. Sponsor and designer of the custom trophy blades for the winners.
Renowned premier provider of Samoan ceremonial headdresses and attire.
As a Senior Cultural Ambassador for Samoa at the PCC, Kap is one of the most recognizable figures in Polynesia. His many talents include fireknife dancing, entertaining, drumming, acting and producing a variety of fine art items such as painting, sculpting, pottery, etc.
Henry was co-owner of McStarlite Company, an aerospace manufacturer and premier sheet metal forming specialist since 1973. McStarlite continues to be the world’s leading producer of inlets which are used on many jet programs. High chief Tauiliili and Shirley loved their Samoan heritage and were always excited about sponsoring and attending the We Are Samoa Festival.
Long-time residents of Laie, Hawaii who were advisors and advocates of the We Are Samoa Festival and Polynesian Cultural Center. Chief Lilomaiva was the head of the Falelua council of Samoan chiefs in Hawaii for years. Many of their descendants continue to work at PCC today.
An original member of the We Are Samoa Festival steering committee who served diligently until his death in December 2021. At his passing, he was the manager of the Samoan village at PCC. He is the eldest child of the late Lilomaiava and Aiaiaga Galeai.
Affectionately known as the “Father of Fireknife Dancing, he is credited with creating the fire knife dance in 1946. Several fireknife “greats” attribute him as their inspiration and mentor. In addition to being a former territorial senator and businessman in American Samoa, he also held the paramount chiefly title of “Letuli”.
Aspiring fireknife dancers who want to follow in their uncle’s fiery footsteps one day. Sons of Christian and Terina Oto Parker.
Although raised in Southern California, John has always been proud of his Samoan heritage and has been a strong supporter of the We Are Samoa Festival since its inception. He is a retired Vice President of PCC and Luella is a long-time educator whose family has deep roots in Laie’s history.
He retired as Vice President and former Controller for the PCC where he was an advocate for the We Are Samoa Festival from it’s early days. She retired as a beloved teacher at Laie Elementary School. Their continued support is appreciated even though they now reside in Washington State.
From Tonga, Kalo is one of the original dancers at the Polynesian Cultural Center who later became the first woman to serve on its board of directors. A successful entrepreneur, Waikiki entertainer, and show director of the Hawaiian Hut for many years.
While serving as president of the Polynesian Cultural Center, he encouraged the creation of the We Are Samoa Festival. As president, he was bestowed the chiefly title of Galumalemana by then, Head of State of Samoa, His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II in May of 1997 to honor PCC’s mission to preserve culture and support education. Today, as a former president, he continues to support his adopted Samoan culture.
A perpetual donation to inspire young fireknife dancers in memory of a revered grandfather from Tonga.
A family of fireknife warriors and supporters headed by retired knife dancer Ah Chew Tafiti, along with daughter-in-law Tehinamai Mataele Tafiti – owner of Tauivi designs – an extremely popular traditional and contemporary cultural designer.
Tauasa Sielu Avea , better known as “Chief,” is a worldwide ambassador of Samoan culture. In 1993, he was the inaugural World Fireknife Champion who became a very successful entrepreneur and entertainer. This legacy sponsorship is dedicated to his children – Samuta and Siela Avea.
For more information or to make reservations, call the Polynesian Cultural Center ticket office at (808) 293-3333