After a decade of tireless dedication, Palu ‘Uhatahi Tu’amoheloa is wrapping up her extraordinary chapter as the Head of the Social Responsibility/Just Play Project Manager.
This initiative has become a shining example of how sport can incite change and foster community, connecting participants, volunteers, and staff through the joy of football. While Palu gets ready for an exciting new role in New Zealand with the Oceania Football Confederation, as the Safeguarding and Wellbeing Manager we are reminded that her departure is not just a conclusion but also a fresh start.
Palu’s journey with the Just Play Program was ignited by a lifelong passion for football, deeply rooted in the joyful moments shared with her five brothers and her late mother. Inspired by their enthusiasm for the sport, she dove into this role despite having no prior experience. “Becoming the Manager was certainly a challenge,” she reflects, “but every moment was a lesson. The unyielding support from our CEO, President, other department heads, and staff motivated me to push through.” Her journey began with a vision to wield football as a tool for social inclusion, youth empowerment, and community development.
Guided by her empathetic leadership, the program has made a significant impact, reaching thousands of children from various backgrounds. One of Palu’s proudest achievements was the development and execution of the safeguarding policy for the Tonga Football Association. This initiative included seeking for training football staff through Zoom during challenging times marked by volcanic eruptions and a COVID-19 pandemic. “That experience was truly remarkable,” she recalls. “In a time filled with uncertainty and lockdowns, the need for connection became vital. The virtual sessions we had with the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience played a crucial role in bridging those gaps, especially among our staff.”
Palu’s journey has been an exciting ride filled with both challenges and triumphs. One of the most significant obstacles she faced was the retention of staff and volunteers. Yet, with her unyielding spirit and creative thinking, she turned these hurdles into stepping stones for growth. She leads initiatives in offering opportunities whom they are willing to lead the change for the programs as she believes “To truly call a place home, you must embody patience and love,” she passionately states. “Without our dedicate human resources, our programs simply can’t flourish, and we wouldn’t reach our goals year after year without the enthusiasm and commitment of our staff and volunteers.”
Palu’s ability for adapting and cultivating the program has certainly stood out. Across the years, she has lightened the path for many, truly embodying the essence of leadership through her relentless dedication and hard work. She has always made it a point to recognize her team’s invaluable contributions, which have been integral in pushing the program forward. “We learned to celebrate small wins along the way,” she recalls, “because every step forward matters.”
As Palu embarks on her new journey in New Zealand, her heart swells with gratitude for the journey she has had. She fondly remembers her father’s steadfast support, always there to offer guidance and motivation. “My father has been my cornerstone, the one I turn to when I need encouragement,” she reflects.
While she readily expects her new role—planning a safeguarding and wellbeing initiative across 11 Member Associations, developing educational programs, training staff, reviewing policies, collaborating with various departments, mentoring future leaders, and ensuring alignment with FIFA’s player care initiatives—there’s a bittersweet sense of leaving behind a place that feels like home. “I’m not just taking my skills with me; I’m carrying the friendships I’ve forged and the invaluable lessons learned from those beside me,” she shares.
As she prepares to say goodbye to the Tonga Just Play Program, Palu has words of encouragement for those who will continue her legacy. “Embrace your journey with open hearts. Always look for the good in others and remain approachable. Aim to make a positive impact in the lives of our Tongan people,” she advises, her words filled with hope for the future. “The vital work of empowering and inspiring through sports is ongoing, and I can’t wait to see what unfolds next.” With her extensive experience and unwavering passion, Palu ‘Uhatahi Tu’amoheloa leaves an indelible mark on those she has inspired, stepping boldly into her next chapter, ready to ignite new passions in others.
