If you plan to visit the National Park of American Samoa, you may meet HPPA's Melekuini in the fascinating visitor center and park store. This U.S. national park in the South Pacific is remote, but it is visited by cruise ships all year long, as well as dedicated independent travelers. HPPA loves to tell the story of this incredible place, our partner, through the products we sell and the park programs and projects we help fund with those proceeds. You may pick up a fun fruit bat shirt or a coconut crab puzzle kit, and while you're there, you may meet this remarkable person. Here is her story.
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I started working for the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association at the National Park of American Samoa on September 19, 2025. Before that, my journey in the park first began when I became a KUPU conservation intern with the National Park Service. At first I worked in trail maintenance, caring for our native plants and spending long days out in the forest. That experience really deepened my love and respect for the land. Later, I transitioned into park interpretation, where I was able to connect with visitors and share what makes this place so special. I later interned with the American Conservation Experience, where I gained even more skills and helped lead the dendrology program. During my term, I earned certifications in Oxygen Use, Emergency First Response, CMS, and FEMA. Those opportunities strengthened both my skills and my confidence. Altogether, these experiences helped me realize that I wanted to continue working in a national park, protecting the environment while sharing knowledge and Samoan culture with others.
The National Park of American Samoa is especially meaningful because it protects not only natural resources but also the living Samoan culture. The land is communally-owned by local families, and the partnership between the National Park Service and the villages helps ensure that traditions, language, and customs continue to thrive. This park is not just a destination — it is our home and our heritage.
I bring my Samoan heritage and personal life experiences with me every day. Visitors are often curious about our culture and they ask about the designs on our tribal stickers or the story behind Pola Island. I truly enjoy sharing those stories. When I talk about living through the 2009 tsunami, it becomes more than just information, it becomes a real, human connection. Personal stories help visitors understand not only the beauty of our island, but also the resilience and strength of our people. Every conversation is an opportunity. When I share stories about our culture or explain why certain plants and animals are important, I’m helping visitors to understand why resource protection matters. Education builds awareness, and awareness leads to respect and preservation. I start by listening. I ask where they’re from and how many parks they plan to visit. Then I share a little about myself and our culture. Being welcoming, smiling, and sharing personal stories helps to bridge cultural differences and create authentic, meaningful connections.
We open at 8 a.m., but most park visitors begin arriving around 9. On a regular day we may welcome 20 or more visitors, but when cruise ships arrive it becomes much busier. My day includes greeting everyone, answering questions, giving directions and recommendations, restocking shelves with park merchandise and information, and assisting with purchases at the HPPA park store area of the visitor center. But more than anything, my job is about making people feel welcome. Every day brings different conversations, which keeps the work exciting and meaningful. Also, many people are surprised to learn that our park does not charge an entrance fee. In January, a visitor from a cruise ship offered his NPS pass card, and we explained that there is no admission fee. He then generously offered a $10 donation instead. What made this even more special was that others in line saw his kindness and decided to donate as well. I was truly touched by their generosity and willingness to support the park, because park donations stay right there to do important work.
One of my favorite sales items is the Travel Park (park logo) shirt with the fruit bat on the back. I love the idea that visitors can travel to other national parks, take photos, tag the park or HPPA, and share their journeys on social media with us and the world. It creates a sense of connection between parks and people everywhere. Many visitors also gravitate toward smaller items that are easy to carry, especially the green and white National Park of American Samoa logo magnet. It’s a simple but meaningful souvenir.
Each area of the park offers something unique — hiking through the rainforest on the Mount Alava Trail, snorkeling in the waters of Ofu, or walking along the coast near Pola Island. Every place in the park has its own peaceful beauty that makes it special. My favorite animal is the Samoan flying fox, also called the fruit bat. They are important pollinators and play a huge role in keeping our forests healthy. They’re also beautiful, especially with soft brown fur around their necks. As for plants, my favorite is the coconut tree, niu in Samoan. In this culture, it is often called the “tree of life.” From food to tools to household items, nearly every part of the tree can be used. It represents sustainability, resourcefulness, and tradition.
What makes working here great is the strong support from our leadership. I feel encouraged to keep learning and growing, and there are always opportunities to gain new knowledge and skills. I also love meeting people from all over the world. Every day brings new conversations and perspectives, which makes the job even more rewarding.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my little family and going snorkeling. Being in the ocean helps me relax and reminds me why protecting our natural resources is so important.
I am truly grateful to work in a place that represents both my culture and our environment. As I continue in my role with the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association, I look forward to growing, learning more, and gaining new experiences. It means so much to me to help protect something that is deeply connected to who I am and to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant for future generations. I hope visitors leave feeling inspired and genuinely welcomed. I want them to appreciate not only the beauty of the park, but also the culture and history behind it. If they leave with a deeper understanding and respect for our island, then I feel like I’ve done my job.
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Learn more about the National Park of American Samoa.
Pick up that cool park logo shirt and tag us and the park in your travels.
Donate to support national parks in the Pacific.
