The first time I met Sedrick Vanisi was in 2010, I was enthralled by his exquisite sense of humor all wrapped up in his graveled voice, warm persona, and an all-around pleasant…
UTOPIA Blog
Fa’afafine Pioneer: the story of Dr. Vena Sele
Dr. Talitigā Vena Sele Her name itself has come to represent a symbol of excellence and unparalleled success, breaking boundaries for the Fa’afafine community. Vena was the first open Fa’afafine woman to…
I’m still here: trials, lessons and triumphs of a lifelong champion.
The city of San Francisco is beloved for its steep rolling hills, cable cars and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is a Historic place deeply rooted with liberal attitudes and the rise…
My father calls me Tiare. My mother calls me Benjamin.
Tiare has been interviewed by many publications and magazines through the years but always on some exploited story on fa’afafine life that took her views out of context. This is the first…
Miss Sina Sison
The life of an activist and advocate from Hotel Street on Oahu, to Hollywood, CA & New York City. Without a doubt, she is a woman who has persevered through many struggles and is alive…
Showgirl to Pioneer: The story of Samoa’s Legendary Fa’afafine Trailblazer.
The Islands of Samoa in its majestic beauty, ancient past and charming Polynesian smiles has enchanted people for over a century. The capital of Apia is the center of numerous historical events,…
Fofola le fala
Our blog is unique and different because it tells the stories of LGBTQ folks from across the Pasefika that rarely ever gets told; if and when they were, it was usually told by persons other than those in our community and in a way that exploits our lives and experiences. My hope with this blog is to help our people tell their stories with utmost dignity and respect.