Moemoana Schwenke clinched the Miss Pacific Islands 2024 title on February 3, 2024, as revealed in a YouTube video.
Before the pageant, she emphasized the significance of sustainable tourism and the need to prioritize future generations’ long-term well-being. Schwenke proudly represented Samoa in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.
Moemoana Schwenke’s Early Life and Background
Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke, a force to be reckoned with, was born in the picturesque landscapes of Samoa.
Her parents, Frederick Schwenke and Maryjane Moe McKibbin Schwenke, nurtured her in the vibrant cultural haven of Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts in Lurnea, New South Wales.
Notably, Maryjane herself was a beauty queen, crowned Miss Samoa Australia 1997, Miss Samoa 1997, and Miss South Pacific 1997.
Moemoana’s roots expanded beyond Samoa, as she spent her formative years not just on the idyllic islands but also in the diverse landscapes of Australia and New Zealand.
Moemoana Schwenke’s Career
In 2013, as a Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts member, Moemoana showcased her artistic prowess by performing traditional siva and dances from across the Pacific. The stage was set for her captivating journey.
Igniting the Flame: Siva Afi Performer
In 2014, a new chapter unfolded as Moemoana embraced the art of siva afi, becoming a mesmerizing fire-knife dancer. Little did she know that this artistic journey would intertwine with a greater purpose.
The Climate Warrior Emerges
Witnessing the stark impacts of climate change on her homeland, Moemoana embarked on a new role—becoming a climate warrior. In 2014, her advocacy for environmental consciousness took flight.
Academic Pursuits: Uplifting Indigenous Studies
From 2019 to 2023, Moemoana dedicated herself to academia, earning her bachelor’s degree in indigenous studies and environmental humanities from the University of Wollongong in Wollongong.
Mastering the Fire: World Fire-Knife Championships
In 2019, Moemoana showcased her fire-knife dancing skills on a global stage, earning the title of the first runner-up in the women’s division of the World Fire-Knife Championships in Hawaii.
A Resounding Voice at COP26
In 2021, Moemoana took her advocacy to the world stage, delivering a powerful speech on climate change at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland.
Recognitions and Awards
March 2022 marked a significant milestone as Moemoana received the Wollongong Local Woman of the Year Award. Following this, in April 2022, her theatrical debut, “Motu of Western Sydney,” graced the stages of Sydney.
A Crowned Queen: Miss Samoa 2023
On September 9, 2023, Gym 1 in Tuanaimato, Apia, Samoa witnessed Moemoana’s crowning moment as she became Miss Samoa 2023.
Pacific Royalty: Miss Pacific Islands 2024
Fast forward to February 3, 2024, Moemoana represented Samoa at the Miss Pacific Islands 2024 pageant in Nauru. In a fierce competition, she emerged victorious, claiming the prestigious title at the age of 23.
Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke’s journey is more than a biography—it’s a testament to resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference.
Background Information
| Full Name | Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke |
| Date of Birth | 1999 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 23 years old |
| Parents | Father: Frederick Schwenke Mother: Maryjane Moe McKibbin Schwenke |
| Birthplace | Samoa |
| Residence | Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia |
| Upbringing | Samoa, Australia, and New Zealand |
| Artistic Journey | Performed siva and dances from the Pacific (2013) |
| Fire-Knife Dancing | Started siva afi performances (2014) |
| Education | University of Wollongong – Bachelor’s in Indigenous Studies and Environmental Humanities (2019-2023) |
| Awards | 1st runner-up, World Fire-Knife Championships (2019) Wollongong Local Woman of the Year Award (March 2022) |
| Theatrical Debut | “Motu of Western Sydney” – Theater Production (April 2022) |
| Miss Samoa | Crowned Miss Samoa 2023 (September 9, 2023) |
| Miss Pacific Islands | Represented Samoa and won Miss Pacific Islands 2024 (February 3, 2024) |
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