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The Samoan Heritage Bridge
For years, my journey in the kitchen has been about more than just recipes; it has been about preserving the stories and flavors of my Samoan heritage. Now, through The Samoa Heritage Bridge, that mission is evolving into a permanent pathway for the next generation. On April 12, 2026, I am embarking on a foundational mission to Samoa to archive the disappearing culinary wisdom of our elders and meet with government officials to establish a formal youth return program. I am going home to sit at the feet of our master practitioners, gathering the skills and sacred techniques needed to bring this knowledge back to our community here in the diaspora.
This is the “groundbreaking” for our inaugural youth delegation planned for late 2026/early 2027. To build this bridge with total integrity, we are operating with radical transparency: 60% of funds support the immediate archival documentation and diplomacy, 30% is locked into our Heritage Grant fund to fly youth back to the islands, and 10% goes directly to a local Samoan community program. We are turning “I wish I knew my roots” into “I am going home.” Join us as a bridge-builder and help us ensure that while our elders hold our history, our youth hold our future.
Mana and Mimosas – Apron Painting Workshop
Step into a morning of island elegance and intentional connection at Mana & Mimosas. This curated brunch experience is designed to celebrate the richness of Samoan culture while supporting the ongoing mission of the Samoa Heritage Bridge. Beyond the sparkling mimosas and vibrant island flavors, this event serves as a gathering space for the community to invest in the future of our youth and the preservation of our past.
The heart of the morning will be an immersive Koko Samoa experience. Join Mackenzie as she shares the sacred traditions of our ancestral cacao—from its history in our villages to the proper way to prepare and enjoy it. You will learn the cultural significance of this “liquid gold” and how it continues to serve as a symbol of hospitality and heritage. Come for the brunch, stay for the culture, and leave as a part of the bridge we are building together.
Event Details
Tickets Go On Sale: February 1st, 2026
Workshop Date: March 1, 2026
Location: Oceanside, CA
Experience Includes: Island inspired treats and mimosas, and a guided Koko Samoa demonstration/tasting.
Mission Impact: A portion of all ticket sales supports the Heritage Grant Fund, sending diaspora youth back to Samoa in 2026/2027.
Ticket price: $30 (Limited to 30 seats)
Coming Soon
Valu Popo & Tatau le Niu (March 2026)
Join us as we master the art of the Tuai (coconut scraper). You won’t just learn how to crack and scrape a fresh coconut; you’ll learn the rhythmic technique passed down through generations to extract the richest, creamiest coconut milk you’ve ever tasted.
This isn’t just a cooking class—it’s a connection to the ‘Aiga. We will discuss the significance of the coconut as the ‘Tree of Life’ while we prepare fresh milk to be used in traditional dishes. Whether you’re reconnecting with your heritage or looking to elevate your culinary skills with fresh, raw ingredients, this class will change the way you look at a coconut forever.
Valu Talo & Fofo’e Fa’i
Join us for a hands-on immersion into the essentials of Pasifika cooking. We will start from the earth up, mastering the specific techniques for scraping taro and peeling green bananas—skills that require patience, rhythm, and heart.
The reward for our labor? We will prepare and try Palusami (creamy coconut milk wrapped in taro leaves). You’ll learn how to layer the leaves, pour the coconut cream, and bundle them for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth finish. This is more than a recipe; it’s a lesson in the flavors that have sustained our people for centuries.
Panikeke
Ever wondered how a simple scoop of dough becomes the soul of an island breakfast? Join us for a deep dive into the “Golden Fritters” of the South Pacific. While many know and love the Samoan Panikeke, this workshop explores the shared DNA of fried treats across our neighboring islands.
We’ll be heating up the pans to master:
- 🥥 The Classic Panikeke (Samoa): The perfect round, golden-brown snack of my childhood.
- 🍌 Gulgalu (Fiji): Sweet, spiced banana fritters that are a staple in Fijian homes.
- ✨ Bunuelos (Guam/Micronesia): Exploring the unique textures and Spanish influences found in the northern islands.
This isn’t just a cooking class; it’s a geography lesson through flavor. We’ll discuss the subtle differences in spices, techniques, and the cultural stories that connect these islands through one universal love: fried dough.
Thank you to The Oceanside Arts and Cultural District!
We are thrilled to announce that the Pasifika Culinary Project has been honored as a grant recipient for the 2026 year by the Oceanside Arts and Cultural District! This prestigious award will empower us to expand our offerings and deepen our impact in the community. Thanks to this generous grant, we will now be able to host more culinary workshops and community events, celebrating the rich and diverse Pasifika culinary traditions. Stay updated and ensure you don’t miss any news as we continue to build this incredible nonprofit by signing up for our updates. Your support and enthusiasm are invaluable as we embark on this exciting journey!
Past Events
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Pasifika Culinary Project 