Mapuana Reed Mataele
Mapuana Reed Mataele
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3.28.23
We are lucky to feature Mapuana Reed Mataele this week! Her parents are Harland & Toni Reed. She has two siblings - Tahiti Reed & Mesepa Reed. She has six children,-Brooke, Elle, Ashley, Elijah, Faith & Heamasi. She is a grandmother to Baejah, Mahina, Aleia, Elliot and Teuila.
Mapuana is a photographer and Mentor. She is still on the journey of self-growth and mastery. She says it is a never-ending journey of growth. Her favorite Polynesian food is all of it, especially if it is cooked by her sister-in-law Mao.
“Life will have its ups and downs, it's like surfing. One minute you are on top of the wave and the next you get hit and come crashing down. While you are down just know that the next wave is right behind that one to get you back up. Also, life is like being out in the open sea, a storm will come and go but it is up to you on where you will guide your va’a to and your ultimate destination. Life is what you make of it. You can either stay down or get back up. The choice is yours.”
“Being of Polynesian descent means I have the honor of carrying the torch of my ancestors. My Great Grandfather Tautua left Samoa and traveled the Pacific Ocean to get to Laie. We all have stories of our ancestors leaving their homeland for a better life for their families. It is up to all of us to take that torch and travel even farther but also honor those who have come before us and help those who are behind us.”
What advice do you have for the upcoming Polynesian generations?
“When your canoe sinks you don’t go down with it. You FIND A WAY and swim. The storm is what makes you strong. Swimming in the open ocean makes you a better swimmer rather than swimming in a kiddie pool. Hard times make strong people. Also never forget where you come from and the people who have helped you get to where you are now.”
"When your canoe sinks you don't go down with it. You FIND A WAY and swim. The storm is what makes you strong."
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