Keeping the Pacific secure, safe, and prosperous resonates with Simata E La’a Palu now, more than ever before.
By Michelle Curran
Strategic Communications, Pasifika TV
Keeping the Pacific secure, safe, and prosperous resonates with Young Pacific Leaders (YPL) alum Simata E La’a Palu now, more than ever before.
The 35-year-old from Tonga is currently a Senior Analyst at the Ministry of Police, utilizing nearly two decades of experience, spanning various sectors, in the role.
“My recent focus has been in national security an area I have much respect for, as it plays a vital role in protecting and strengthening our communities,” Simata says.
“Before that, my work was rooted in the tourism sector, where I specialized in coordination, disaster resilience, and recovery – these experiences have shaped my commitment to building safer, more resilient systems that support both people and place.”
After first participating in last year’s YPL Sustainable Development Workshop, Simata returned to Tonga to co-found Ke Tau Talanoa – an inclusive platform which shares the stories of other young leaders across various media.
This month, from September 13-30, Simata will join a 12-strong cohort to take part in the YPL Alumni Roadshow to the United States, stopping in New York City, Washington DC, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles to connect with existing and potential US stakeholders.
The purpose of the Roadshow is to promote the US Government’s signature initiative, which strengthens leadership and networking in the Pacific.
It will also showcase YPL and the positive impact the program and its alumni have on connections between the Pacific region and the US, while identifying and creating new opportunities for partnership between the US and Pacific nations.
Leading up to the Roadshow, the YPL cohort has been participating in a virtual leadership program, looking at collaboration, advocacy, and raising awareness of the Pacific region.
Incredibly grateful to be part of the Roadshow, Simata says she is excited to learn firsthand how US businesses approach sustainability, business continuity, and mentorship.
“I am interested in how these practices can be adapted and applied back home in Tonga and in the Pacific,” she says.
Simata wants to gain a deeper understanding of the shared values between the US and the Pacific, especially how those values are lived out in leadership, innovation, and strong communities.
“I’m really looking forward to connecting with our Pasifika communities in the United States.
“There’s something so powerful about meeting our people abroad hearing their stories of resilience, sharing experiences, and celebrating our shared roots.”
At the core of this experience, is Simata’s desire to give back to her country, community, and family.
“Whatever I learn, whatever I gain, I want to return home with insights that can uplift and support my community.
“Even if the impact is small, I believe that small acts done with purpose can lead to meaningful change.”
She adds she will depart Tonga in September, with a full heart as she leaves her seven-year-old son in the care of her village.
“This is the same village that raised me.
“It’s not easy, but it’s a choice made with hope and love, and I pray that one day, when he’s older and sees his mother stepping forward paving a way, even in small steps, he’ll find the courage to do the same.
“Just as my parents did for me, and as our ancestors did for them.”
Visit the Young Pacific Leaders website for more details on the US Department of State initiative.
