Miss American Samoa breaks barriers

Miss American Samoa Tofoi Unutoa is driven by a desire to create better opportunities for her family and community.

Source: Miss Pacific Islands Pageant

Meet Tofoi Unutoa, a 25-year-old United States Army Commissioned Lieutenant Officer, who is breaking barriers and building bridges between military service, public administration, and community empowerment in American Samoa.

From the beautiful village of Aua, Tofoi is the second eldest of four children and a proud member of the Aua Congregational Christian Church, where her faith in Jesus Christ anchors her life and service.

Driven by a desire to create better opportunities for her family and community, she ventured to Southern Oregon University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice while simultaneously pursuing her military career.

But Tofoi’s story does not end with her uniform.

After completing her studies, she returned home with a clear mission: to give back.

Today, she serves as a Compliance Officer for the American Samoa Government Governor’s Office ARPA Oversight, where she plays a vital role in strengthening government and nonprofit programs, infrastructure, and community services.

Not content to stop there, she has currently enrolled in the Legal Affairs Pipeline Cohort, preparing for law school and the next chapter of her public service journey.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tofoi is deeply committed to youth empowerment.

She actively engages with Southern Oregon University’s alumni network, championing education and leadership opportunities for young Pacific Islanders.

In her village, she serves with the Tinifiu women’s group, working to promote and empower the next generation of young women, a mission she carries forward through the Miss American Samoa Incorporated platform.

When she’s not in uniform or at her desk, you will find Tofoi running, fishing, or serving her community.

At the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, she proudly represents Le Motu o Fiafiaga o Amerika Samoa, the beautiful island of American Samoa.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026, hosted in Nadi from February 13-14, celebrates cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and leadership among young Pacific women.

Check with Pasifika TV and your local broadcasters for coverage of the 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.