Tell me about yourself, where you live, and what do you do?

Hi! My name is Kau‘ilani Misipeka, and it means “The Beautiful Heaven”. I currently live in American Samoa and loving every second of it. My ultimate goal is to help the people of American Samoa strive to be better. I want to become a Marine Biologist, but also use my time to help the youth grow as student athletes.

What does a typical day in your life look like?

Everyday I wake up at 5-6am to get ready for workouts, then I come home to a morning swim. There’s a lot of girls in our home, so we have to clean and make sure everything is tidy before we go on with our day. We have volleyball clinics that teach girls 18 and younger the basic skills you need for volleyball. After, I come home to relax or paddle to get some air or clean some more.

Favorite beach?

My favorite beach is Coconut point because it’s my home. I love seeing the turtles and sea creatures that swim around. It’s where I grew up and where I want to stay.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love working out, spending time with my family and turtle watching. Mostly spending time with the people I love, they make every second valuable.

Favorite restaurant in American Samoa?

I don’t really eat a lot outside my home, but I would say Milovales is my favorite because they have delicious fish and chips.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? 10 years?

In 5 years, I would be back in American Samoa and trying my best to improve our environment. I would also have a part time job as a strength and conditioning instructor for the youth. In 10 years, I would remain in American Samoa as a Marine Biologist and continuing to make our island better then expand to other islands and countries. I want to have my own nonprofit organization, that helps the youth travel to other places to explore their options and knowledge that we may not have.

What are your goals for this year?

As of right now, I want to meet my 2 mile run time and pass basic training/AIT. I also have a goal to clean as many beaches as I can while I’m here.

Describe your perfect weekend.

A perfect weekend is on a beach somewhere with the sun shining, healthy food, and my loved ones around me. There’s a second where you feel like time has stopped and there’s no bad and you’re in your own world. That’s where I wanna be.

Favorite food?

Favorite food? I love BACON ASPARAGUS, even though they’re hard to find on island;(

What is your all time favorite spot in American Samoa?

Coconut Point lol! I am surrounded by good people, beautiful sunrise/sets, it’s peaceful and my ancestors are from here.

What advice would you give your 10-year old self?

Stop eating, workout more, jokes! Remember that there’s always room for improvement. And keep doing you girl!

Model and interview by Kau‘ilani Misipeka. Questions and photos by Nerelle.

More in the MEET series.

Follow Kau‘ilani on instagram: @kauilani_misipeka