“I love my God. I love my family. I love my hood, Otara – The Promisedland” – Allan Va’a
The community of 274 in the heart of South Auckland, Otara are mourning the loss of a son of Samoa and their beloved son, Malagaomā Allan Francis Leonardie Peter Va’a who passed away suddenly on Monday 11 April 2022 at age 58.
Allan, known for his tireless work in the community for more than 30 years, mentored many young people through club programmes, young men programmes, sports, camps, social work and voluntary community work.
Allan was instrumental as Project manager for 274 Youth and Community Trust following rising gang tensions in South Auckland.
Supporting local sport initiatives was another passion and he coached several local rugby teams. Allan also provided pastoral care counselling. Education was another passion, serving as Board Chair of Tangaroa College.
In 2017, Allan was the recipient of the Sunpix Awards, winner of the Pacific Community Leadership Award and in 2019 he was recognised for his services to youth and sport and received the Queens Service Medal.
Members of the wider Pacific community have taken to social media to remember a man described as an agent of change, community advocate, mentor, spiritual leader and affectionately seen as a big brother, uncle, father figure and grand pa.
Talking about his beloved Otara in a recent podcast, Allan described his home as the promised land.
“It is a land full of promise and we see the potential of our kids on a daily basis.”
Our thoughts are with Malagaomā wife Alice and their aiga during this time.
Malagaomā’s family service will be held Saturday 16 April at Tangaroa College in Otara and his funeral will be held Tuesday 19 April.
Live-streaming for these services:
Family Service
Funeral Service https://youtu.be/R5-OQRDHd00
