At the end of the school year in 2009, fellow Volunteer Max invited me to visit his village hoping I would act as cameraman for his fa’amavae (or farewell party) at his school. I happily agreed and unsurprisingly had a great time. Congratulations to Max for making it two years and for all the excellent work.
Professor Max.
Max with his principal. His lack of smile in this photo doesn't show how much he really loves Max!
The principal gave a speech in front of the student body thanking Max for all of his hard work and dedication to the school.
One of the students got up and gave a great speech saying how much the students would all miss him.(Classy shirt in the black haha)
Then Max gave a speech in Samoan thanking everyone for all they had given him and for the opportunity to live in Samoa and teach at their school.
As follows tradition Max was then gifted with lots of presents including necklaces, a shirt, an ava bowl, and an awesome siapo (which his village is famous for making).
Then the students sang while Max had to dance. What can I say? It was awesome. I think the kids came just to see this part and laugh hysterically.
His audience.
Max with some of his students.
Back at home; Max with his host family.
A huge grapefruit thing.
Having trouble there?
Me and Max with visiting relative Olita from Australia. She helped him perfect his Samoan speech.
Max and his host mom.
Max with host sister Fa’asoesa.
Sitting out by the beach in Sala’ilua. You can tell he loves it there by looking at his toes. I mean, even the guy’s toes are happy.
4 comments:
I shed a little tear. Max, we miss you already.
phil, you lucky bastard. who knows, maybe ill pull a nick....(you know, return months after my departure).
From what I have heard, I really don't know how the Peace Corp Samoa will survive without the computer prowess of the Max Man. Good luck to you Max. Great pictures Phil!
Does Max have a blog??? would love to hear more about Sali'ilua and his experiences there.
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