A new era of leadership for Le Va
This month brought a deeply meaningful moment to Le Va as our aiga gathered to welcome Mati Dr Elizabeth Mati as our new chief executive with a traditional kava ceremony during Tongan Language Week.
Dr Mati’s appointment reflects Le Va’s commitment to growing leadership from within. As an ali’i (high chief) matai, holding the title Mati from her father’s village Sa’anapu in Samoa, she brings both cultural authority and extensive experience spanning mental health, forensic services and education.
Having led Le Va’s national Atu-Mai violence prevention programme and served as general manager, Mati’s leadership represents continuity grounded in Le Va’s values and an innovative vision for the future.
Mati said, “As I step into this role, I am reminded of the Samoan proverb: O le ala i le pule o le tautua – the path to leadership is through service. For me, leadership is not the end of service but its deepest form.
“My role will continue to be about serving our people, our communities and our purpose with humility, courage, integrity and excellence. Honouring those who came before us, those we walk alongside today, and those we serve.”
Le Va’s board chair Josiah Tualamali’i captured the spirit of the occasion: “What a moving day, gathering to acknowledge outgoing CE Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave and the precious transfer of leadership to afioga Mati Dr Elizabeth Mati.
“Le Va has been blessed to nurture internal leaders. Mati, we are grateful for your skills, gifts and talents and your heart to serve.”
The kava circle created a sacred space where stories were shared, wisdom was passed on and connections were strengthened. As the ipu kava bowl moved between participants, it carried with it the respect and alofa our community holds for Mati – embracing her vision for our path ahead.
Mati ended by saying, “The challenges before us are complex, but I believe that through collaboration, innovation and the wisdom of our cultures, we will not only overcome them, but we thrive.
“It is my intent to honour the legacy of those who laid the foundations before us, while boldly stepping into the future, so that Le Va may continue to support the people of the Moana to unleash their full potential.”
As we move forward with Mati at the helm, this ceremony will remain a touchstone moment, reminding us that meaningful change happens when we honour our past while embracing our future, always with culture at our centre.
