Isabella Ah-Mu Mageo, the reigning Miss American Samoa, is infusing military discipline and leadership into the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant currently taking place in Nadi. The U.S. military lieutenant and compliance officer attributes her advocacy, particularly for women in leadership roles, to the values she embraced during her military service.
Mageo views her participation in the pageant as a platform to emphasize the importance of strong, principles-based leadership, which is inspired by the seven core military values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. “All seven of us here today are here as ambassadors, representing our cultures, our people, and our land,” she stated. She emphasized the importance of carrying the essence of their countries and cultures with them and instilling military discipline and legal expertise throughout the competition.
At just 25 years old, Mageo’s journey began in American Samoa, leading her to attend military school in Oregon—a move she made to support her family back home. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to study in the United States, recognizing it as a privilege, especially for someone from a low-income background who could not afford tertiary education.
Throughout the pageant, Mageo has encouraged her fellow contestants to stand strong amidst the pressures of competition, reinforcing that while external voices may seek to define them, true identity comes from within. She believes that every contestant on the Miss Pacific Islands stage is already a leader, proudly representing their people and traditions.
The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant continues this week in Nadi, showcasing the talents, cultures, and aspirations of young women from across the region, and highlighting the positivity and strength that they bring to their communities.
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