MISS Samoa Iliganoa Feagaimali’i Soti is a proud daughter of Vaisala, Savai’i, where her upbringing along the island’s northwestern coast grounded her in faith, culture, and service.
Raised in a close-knit community, she credits her parents and village for shaping her values and giving her a strong sense of responsibility.
Iliganoa is an Australian Awards alumni with a Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Adelaide. She now works at the National University of Samoa as a Lecturer in Sociology, Foundation Courses Coordinator and Researcher — roles that allow her to support and guide young people through their education journeys.
Her leadership extends beyond academia. She has served as a World Literacy Foundation Youth Ambassador, an Australian Awards Changemaker, a founding member of the Samoa Youth Advisory Board and a Youth Delegate to the Commonwealth Youth Council. She has represented Samoa and the Pacific at international youth forums, peace conferences and during the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Youth Forum.
Iliganoa is an alumna of the Anofale Mentoring & Leadership Program, which focuses on protecting and promoting Samoan cultural heritage. She also co–facilitates the Peer2Peer Initiative at the National University of Samoa, helping students develop personal and professional skills. With a strong interest in health and wellbeing, she founded the Ola Malosi Initiative, a community space that encourages exercise, training and mental wellness. She believes that maintaining balance between mind, body and spirit is essential to living well.
Born Feagaimali’i, she was later bestowed the Taupou title Iliganoa by her village of Vaisala — a significant recognition of her service, leadership and contribution to her community.
Miss Samoa Iliganoa Feagaimali’i Soti continues to use every platform available to her to uplift others and represent her country with pride.
