Honouring a new Matai – Mati Dr Elizabeth Mati

On 3 January 2025, Le Va’s general manager, Dr Elizabeth Mati, had the honour of receiving an ali’i or high chief title from her family’s village in Samoa.

Elizabeth, a proud Aotearoa-born Samoan, believes that leadership is an ongoing journey rather than a destination. She is dedicated to upholding her Pacific values in her work at Le Va and in her role within her family.

Below, she shares her experience of the ceremony and thanks those who have supported her on a journey of culture and leadership.

Our entire team congratulates Elizabeth on this important milestone which is the perfect embodiment of the cultural leadership she shows every day as general manager of Le Va.

“I am deeply honoured to be bestowed an ali’i (high chief) title, Mati, from my father’s nu’u (village), Sa’anapu.

The saofa’i (ceremony) was an emotional and humbling experience, reflecting on the significance of the title and the memory of my late father, Luaitaua Matuisa Mati.

Thank you to my husband, parents, children, and siblings for their support.

I am also grateful to the many others who have guided and helped me on this journey of culture and leadership—your contributions have played an important role in shaping the person I am today.

My growth, my achievements are not mine alone.

‘O le ala i le pule o le tautua’ – The pathway to leadership is through service.

My hope is to honour my dad and family and make them proud. May I continue to serve, lead and stay true to my values, family and village.”