Empowering American Samoa's Nutrition and Wellness
We stand at a critical crossroads for our people's health and well-being. Will you join the movement?T
FOUR PILLARS OF #MASHA
Reclaiming our Roots Through Nutrition
Reclaiming our Roots Through Nutrition
Reclaiming our Roots Through Nutrition
Rediscover the vibrant, wholesome foods of our ancestors. Before processed foods, our traditional diet—rich in fresh fish, taro, breadfruit, and tropical fruits—nourished strong, healthy communities. By reviving these time-honored ingredients and cooking practices, we can combat alarming obesity rates and restore vitality, honoring our heritage while building a healthier future.
Move Together as a Community
Reclaiming our Roots Through Nutrition
Reclaiming our Roots Through Nutrition
Moving Together as a Community celebrates the power of shared activity to uplift American Samoans. Our ancestors thrived through collective efforts—fishing, farming, and dancing under open skies. By embracing group activities like fun runs and walking groups, traditional dance, or village sports, we strengthen bonds and bodies alike. Together, we can combat sedentary lifestyles, fostering health, joy, and unity across our islands.
Unite our Leaders Through Change
Unite our Leaders Through Change calls on American Samoa’s leaders—government officials, business owners, church elders, cultural leaders and more—to champion a healthier future. Our ancestors led with vision, ensuring thriving communities. Today, we face rising obesity and health challenges that demand bold action. We urge leaders across all sectors to prioritize nutrition, movement, and wellness initiatives, uniting to inspire and drive lasting change. Step forward, lead by example, and make health a legacy for our people.
Empower our Youth
Empower our Youth ignites the spark in American Samoa’s next generation to lead the charge for a healthier future. Our young people carry the strength of our ancestors, who thrived on wholesome foods and active lives. By equipping them with knowledge about traditional nutrition, encouraging community movement, and fostering pride in our heritage, we inspire them to drive change. Let’s empower our youth to embrace wellness, reject processed foods, and shape a vibrant, healthy Samoa for all.
About Make American Samoa Healthy Again - THE TEAM
Michael McDonald and Paula Stevenson-McDonald, co-owners of South Pacific Watersports & Fitness, bring their passion for health and wellness to American Samoa through their dynamic leadership and community-focused vision. they have built a thriving enterprise dedicated to enhancing the well-being of American Samoans through accessible wat
Michael McDonald and Paula Stevenson-McDonald, co-owners of South Pacific Watersports & Fitness, bring their passion for health and wellness to American Samoa through their dynamic leadership and community-focused vision. they have built a thriving enterprise dedicated to enhancing the well-being of American Samoans through accessible watersports and fitness opportunities, fostering a healthier, more active community. they are also active in several local sport associations, including outrigger, triathlon, coastal rowing, and cycling.
Dr. Nicola Hawley is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology (Chronic Diseases) at the Yale School of Public Health. Trained as a human biologist, Dr. Hawley is an internationally recognized expert in maternal and child health, with particular expertise in the prevention and treatment of obesity and related chronic diseases. She has worked
Dr. Nicola Hawley is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology (Chronic Diseases) at the Yale School of Public Health. Trained as a human biologist, Dr. Hawley is an internationally recognized expert in maternal and child health, with particular expertise in the prevention and treatment of obesity and related chronic diseases. She has worked in American Samoa for >15 years, leading research that has documented obesity risk among children and youth. She is currently leading a number of projects in American Samoa related to diabetes in pregnancy and developing interventions to promote the health of women, adolescents, and children.
John Raynar and Sia Atofau are the vibrant hosts of Samoan Sunrise, the popular morning show on 93KHJ-FM (93.1 FM) in Pago Pago, American Samoa. For over two decades, they've energized the island with American pop hits, local infotainment, and engaging interviews. John brings his radio expertise and broadcasting passion, while Sia infuses
John Raynar and Sia Atofau are the vibrant hosts of Samoan Sunrise, the popular morning show on 93KHJ-FM (93.1 FM) in Pago Pago, American Samoa. For over two decades, they've energized the island with American pop hits, local infotainment, and engaging interviews. John brings his radio expertise and broadcasting passion, while Sia infuses authentic Samoan spirit. Both are dedicated fitness advocates, having grown with South Pacific Watersports & Fitness since its opening in 2015, and are thrilled to join the #Make American Samoa Healthy Again# movement, promoting wellness across the territory.
Sandra Scanlan, a retired Doctor of Physical Therapy with over 40 years of experience, is a dedicated community leader and advocate. She founded and directs the Parents of Children with Special Needs Network (PCSN), providing vital support to families, and established Alofa Tunoa Samoa Medical Supply, enhancing healthcare access. A passio
Sandra Scanlan, a retired Doctor of Physical Therapy with over 40 years of experience, is a dedicated community leader and advocate. She founded and directs the Parents of Children with Special Needs Network (PCSN), providing vital support to families, and established Alofa Tunoa Samoa Medical Supply, enhancing healthcare access. A passionate fitness and nutrition enthusiast, Sandra also champions animal rescue. Currently, she serves at the Pala Lagoon Swim Center as a Lifeguard, Lifeguard Instructor, Lifeguard Manager, CPR Instructor, Swim Instructor, and leads the Water Aerobics & Rehab Program. A local resident for over 27 years, Sandra continues to make a profound impact through her expertise and compassion.