Pelenatete Taei, the Social Responsibility and Just Play Programme Manager for Samoa Football, has officially graduated with the prestigious FIFA Diploma in Safeguarding.
At 39 years of age, Pelenatete balances her demanding professional role with her most important one: being a devoted wife and mother of two. Her journey with Samoa Football began in 2023, where she quickly became an integral member of the OFC Social Responsibility Working Group
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Reflecting on her path, Pelenatete notes that her first year was dedicated to listening and learning within the working group, where she developed a profound understanding of the critical importance of safeguarding in sports. In early 2024, she took the leap to join the FIFA Diploma in Safeguarding, a global program featuring participants from around the world.
”It has not been an easy journey,” Pelenatete shares. “Navigating five intensive courses, numerous quizzes, and complex assignments was the greatest challenge I have faced professionally. However, I believe that beyond every challenge lies an opportunity.”
Faith and Gratitude
Pelenatete attributes her success to her faith, acknowledging the love and grace of Jesus Christ. “I give all glory and praise to Him; through Him, all things are possible,” she says, citing Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
She extends her heartfelt thanks to the leadership of Samoa Football for prioritizing staff development and providing the platform to pursue such high-level qualifications.
“Faafetai mo le faaaloalo ma avanoa e le maua gofie.”
A Collective Achievement
The achievement is not hers alone. Pelenatete wishes to acknowledge her colleagues and “those who sailed the boat together” throughout this process. She also thanks the stakeholders of Samoa Football for their unwavering commitment to keeping the community safe.
Special recognition was reserved for her “prayer warriors” and, most importantly, her family.
”To my husband and my children: thank you. I especially want to acknowledge my husband, who stepped in to manage the household and care for our children during my many travels for work and especially for the course. Your support made this possible.
With this new qualification, Pelenatete is more equipped than ever to lead Samoa Football’s safeguarding initiatives, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for the next generation of Samoa.
