After dedicating nine impactful years as a Master Instructor for the Just Play Program, Lafaele is excited to embrace the role as the Head of Social Responsibility/Just Play Project Manager again after 16 years working on this program.
This position is brimming with potential and responsibility, and he took a moment to reflect on his inspiring journey from 2009 to 2024, sharing valuable insights that have shaped his growth and aspirations for the future.
“The key lesson I’ve learned is the vital importance of always being prepared to lead by example,” Lafaele shared. “As I step into this new role, I know I need to be ready for the unexpected, serve as a role model for my team both on and off the field, push my comfort zone, and connect with new people.”
“I believe these insights will guide me as Project Manager, allowing me to build upon the remarkable work done by our former Social Responsibility Manager, Palu Tu’amoheloa, over the past ten years, and collaborate with my team to achieve our goals.”
Drawing from his firsthand experience in the program, Lafaele highlighted how crucial it is to include the voices of participants and instructors in decision-making. “Their perspectives and opinions are incredibly important. We must listen to them, take their input seriously, and act on it,” he emphasized.
Lafaele Moala began his journey with the program, as it is first-ever Project Manager back in 2009, the very year the Just Play Program was launched in Tonga. Though he faced challenges that led him to take a step back temporarily, he now feels ready to fully embrace the Manager role this year, leveraging the lessons he has learned from his previous managers. He acknowledges that his new position comes with its own set of challenges.
“Transitioning from an Instructor to a Manager requires a significant mindset shift. I anticipate facing complex issues as we work to ensure our program continues to thrive and succeed. To tackle these challenges, I plan to enhance my project management skills, improve communication, and hold regular meetings to manage expectations and keep projects on track,” he stated.
Lafaele’s strategy is all about creating a more inclusive environment in the program. By providing capacity-building training, he aims to welcome players from all backgrounds—boys and girls, men and women, and individuals with disabilities—to actively participate. Additionally, he plans to collaborate with local centres for people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be involved and no one feels left out.
He firmly believes that the “Just Play Program is for everyone.” It does not matter if you are young or old, facing challenges, or living with a disability—this program is designed for you.” Let us embrace the spirit of play and make sure everyone gets a chance to join in.
