Tonga

How Tongan Spirit Drives Success: Stories of Katoa and Waqanivalu

From NRL stardom to NZ Army service, discover how Tongan roots inspire greatness. 🌴🏉🌺

Tonga is a land rich in culture and tradition, where the spirit of family and community runs deep. In the world of sports, Eliesa Katoa embodies this ethos as he excels in the NRL, driven by the role of breadwinner for his family back in Tonga. His outstanding performance with the Storm this season reflects his determination and passion, fueled by the desire to support his loved ones across the seas. Meanwhile, in a different arena, Lieutenant Jokaveti (Sue) Waqanivalu, a Fijian-born soldier serving in the NZ Army, found herself connecting with Tonga's Ha'apai islands during Exercise Tropic Twilight. The experience rekindled her ties to the Pacific community and highlighted the shared values of loyalty and service. Both Katoa and Waqanivalu showcase how the influence of Tongan heritage can inspire individuals to achieve greatness, whether on the sports field or in the military. The stories of these two remarkable individuals demonstrate the power of cultural roots in driving personal success and fulfillment.