The morning sun glints off Safata Bay on Samoa’s central south coast of Upolu Island, where women wade through the shallows, harvesting seaweed. Among them, Su’a Ulusapeti Tiitii leads by example. She thrives in the mud, the markets, and the meetings where change happens. As a feminist trailblazer, economic innovator, and science-informed practitioner, she’s proven that healthy ecosystems and thriving livelihoods are inextricably linked. Yet Samoa’s coasts face mounting threats: climate change bleaches coral reefs, overfishing depletes marine life, plastic waste chokes ecosystems, and imported foods drive a public health crisis.
As Coordinator of the Kiwa Initiative’s RESTORE project, she is transforming coastal conservation into economic empowerment. After years in Samoa’s government Fisheries Division, she now leads a €3.3 million mission uniting ecosystem restoration, sustainable aquaculture, and community ownership. “I developed a deep understanding of coastal communities, their dependence on marine resources, and the importance of sustainable management,” she reflects. Her ability to translate complex data into practical solutions has made her a trusted reference in Samoa’s conservation circles. Her innovative spirit shines through seaweed and trochus farming, now thriving in 20 sites across Samoa. “Tell communities seaweed has nutritional value but also explain aquaculture. Without farming, resources will be depleted in 2-3 years. Farming ensures sustainability and income,” she explains.
A leader for equity and inclusion
For Ulusapeti, true success extends beyond ecological metrics. “Actively involving communities in monitoring and restoration is vital for long-term sustainability,” she reflects. Under her leadership, RESTORE achieved 60% of women’s participation in consultations. In a region where matai (chiefs) often lead discussions, she’s unapologetic: “Holding separate hearing sessions initially ensured everyone could speak.” What started as distinct focus groups has now evolved into collective meetings where women’s extensive traditional knowledge about intertidal zones: species, seasonal patterns, and sustainable practices are followed. From revising Village Fisheries Management Plans to enforcing coastal cleanliness bans, women now lead RESTORE’s success.
Her coral restoration work exemplifies this approach. Through Reef Stars, a low-cost, community-friendly technique, RESTORE is helping Samoa’s reefs. In May 2026, 75 participants from 15 communities were trained in coral fragmentation and replanting.
From roadside to online: economic empowerment
But Ulusapeti’s vision doesn’t stop at ecology. Market development and grassroots entrepreneurship are at its core. “We’re helping communities scale up from roadside sales,” she says. “Small starts with an online presence can grow enormously.” Through partnerships with the Samoa Business Hub, she trains communities in business planning and digital marketing. “Now, Facebook or YouTube can showcase businesses,” she grins.
By the end of the program in 2027, she envisions resilient reefs, thriving mangroves, and empowered communities. “My hope is that this project leaves confident people, strong partnerships, and a new generation of leaders, especially young women ready to advance conservation in Samoa,” she states. Her final message: “This work is about people. About us, our relationships with our resources. It’s demanding but deeply meaningful.”
