The Don Bosco Technical Centre Alafua community is mourning the loss of Fonomaitu Mane Su’a, who served as Principal from 2017 until 2026 and passed away on 5 August 2026. His passing is a great loss to the school, the Salesian Family and the wider community of Samoa. However, through his vision, commitment and leadership, Mane leaves the school in a strong position to continue its important mission of educating and empowering young people.
Mane dedicated his life to the values of Don Bosco and firmly believed that every young person deserved the opportunity to build a better future through education. His connection to Don Bosco was deeply personal. Reflecting on his journey, Mane often spoke about how the Salesian mission had shaped his own life and inspired him to give back by helping young people realise their potential. He believed education provided dignity, hope and opportunity, and he lived those values every day.
One of Mane’s most significant achievements was his determination to make technical education more inclusive. In 2020, he led the introduction of female students to Don Bosco Technical Centre Alafua, believing that girls should have the same opportunities as boys to pursue technical and vocational education. At a time when traditional stereotypes often limited female participation in technical trades, Mane championed a different vision, one where young women could develop skills, gain qualifications and contribute confidently to Samoa’s future.
Under his leadership, the school also experienced steady growth in enrolments, with increasing numbers of young people choosing Don Bosco because of its strong reputation for quality technical education and values-based formation. He strengthened programs, expanded opportunities for students and ensured the school remained focused on serving those most in need.
Today, we give thanks for Mane’s faithful service, dedication and belief in the potential of every young person. His legacy lives on in the thousands of students whose lives he touched and in the strong foundation he leaves behind. He will be
greatly missed, but his vision for Don Bosco and the youth of Samoa will continue to inspire generations to come.
We asked Charbel and Nick, Cagliero volunteers who served at Don Bosco Alafua in 2025 and 2026 respectively during Mane’s time there, to share their reflections on their experiences.
From Charbel:
During my missionary service at Don Bosco Alafua, I was privileged to closely interact and work with Mane.
One aspect of his personality that stood out was his kindness and hospitality. He exhibited the Samoan and Salesian value of a warm welcome, making sure that everyone under his care was valued and appreciated. This extended to his leadership as a principal, where he tried his best to make sure the views of students, staff and parents were all respected and considered. As a leader, he worked tirelessly for the development and success of the mission at Alafua. All his efforts were directed to ensuring that the students received the best possible education experience. He was also committed to the Salesian ethos, trying to ensure it was upheld by all under his care. In line with the Salesian spirit, he would try to encourage positivity and joy at staff meetings.
Every office chat we had would have the welfare of the students and their learning as his focus. He will be deeply missed as a leader and at a personal level.
From Nick:
“Have faith in Mary Help of Christians, and you will see the miracles.”
Don Bosco
Don Bosco’s devotion to Mary, Help of Christians is reflected in deep conviction that went through all his work and which he repeated whenever he could that “She did everything” or “It wasn’t me, it was the Virgin Help of Christians who saved you.” For Don Bosco, Mary wasn’t a distant figure, but a constant companion, mother, guide, and protector of the young and the Salesian mission.
As I reflect on Mane, I am drawn to the virtues that call us to be Marian in spirit and offer these as an embodiment of Mane’s work and leadership in the school community: A strong and faithful presence, providing a source of comfort. Watchful and attentive to the needs of others and acting with wisdom and care. Advocating for the vulnerable and being courageous and bold to needs of the school mission.
Perhaps most poignantly walking alongside the young with the heart of Mary, just as Don Bosco did.
May Mary continue to guide and protect our lives, just as she accompanied and strengthened Mane throughout his life in the school community.
