Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt, opened up about the profound impact of his Marist education on his life. From his early days at Marist Primary in Mulivai to being Head Boy at St Joseph's College in 1984.
The Foundation of Marist Education
Laauli credits his comprehensive Marist education with laying the foundation for his personal and professional success. "I am who I am today because of Marist," he declared, emphasising the significance of the holistic education he received. The curriculum at Marist covered essential subjects like English, Maths, Science, and Accounting. However, it was the unique Marist approach to applying these academic theories to practical situations that truly set the difference.
"Our real life hustle started from there, self-belief and confidence, working as a team of brothers to achieve the goal," Laauli explained. We started fundraising for our schools, our churches, helping the Brothers "Felala" do Gods work, this fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among the students, forging bonds that would last a lifetime.
The Spirit of Teamwork and Unity
A core principle that Laauli holds dear from his Marist days is the value of teamwork. He shared a powerful quote that encapsulates this philosophy: "If you want to get somewhere faster, go by yourself; if you want to go further, go together." This belief in collective strength and unity, forged through his Marist bond, remains a guiding principle in his life. "If you look at many Marist businesses they operate in the same collective system, together you are stronger"
Beyond the Classroom: Service and Compassion
Marist life extended beyond the classroom, encompassing church activities and service to the community. Students were encouraged to participate in church and serve their elders, including those at Mapuifagalele, the local old people's home. "To this day, you still see many old boys going to Vailele where the old people's home is, taking gifts of food and money, sometimes playing a song for the elderly," Laauli noted. "The reason we do that is because it was instilled in us from a young age."
This commitment to service and compassion continues to be a hallmark of the Marist community, reflecting the values instilled in students from a young age.
Leadership and the Marist Code
Laauli highlighted the unique leadership philosophy instilled by St Joseph's College, encapsulated in its motto: "Tausisi I Mea Aupito Lelei - Strive for the best." He believes this motto sets the school apart from others. "Our school motto, if you break it down, is to endeavour, reach, or strain for something above or beyond for Samoa, your family, your village, and church... every Marist must always strive."
"Every Marist from St Joseph's College lives by the code, not to accept anything less than the best," Laauli asserted. "We are taught to keep pushing for the best for Samoa."
A Bond Stronger Than Political Differences
When asked about his political rival, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Laauli offered a perspective that underscores the strength of their shared Marist bond. "When we enter the Marist Gates, our political differences are left at the front gate, our titles, whoever we are in the public eye is left at the gate, on Marist grounds, we are one.
The younger brothers respect the older brothers, and the older brothers show love and compassion for the younger ones," he explained. Laauli emphasised that while their political opinions may differ, their bond as Marist brothers remains unshaken. "I still have love and respect for him, even through our political differences, he is a Marist"
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