Amata Highlights Capitol Visit for 2025 Malofie Congressional Art Competition Winner Deborah Vaiotu
Washington, D.C. – On behalf of Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata, Chief of Staff Leafaina Tavai welcomed the 2025 winner of the Malofie Congressional Art Competition, Deborah Vaiotu of Tafuna High School and Malaeloa Village, to the U.S. Capitol for the opening of her artwork last week, accompanied by her sister Evoline. Deborah’s outstanding artwork titled “Motherhood” is now on display for the next year.
American Samoa’s competition was judged in March with over 25 strong entries from local students. The winners from congressional districts all over the nation are invited yearly to the Capitol to see their artwork on display, attend a national reception, and other activities.
“Congratulations to Deborah for her beautiful and especially heartwarming artwork, which represents American Samoa so well,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Everyone exclaims over her lovely depiction of a strong Samoan mother with a baby.”
“Thank you to all of the competition participants, and I know this year had so many good entries, which is a credit to these creative students and their excellent art teachers,” she continued.
The winning artwork is displayed where thousands of Capitol tour groups each year will see the rows of work by skilled young people all over the country. Members of Congress will walk by the display wall many times over the year ahead.
“As I return to Washington, it will be wonderful to see all the new art in place showcasing originality and cultural influences from all over the country,” concluded Amata. “Thank you again to this year’s generous sponsors making this opportunity available to our students.”
Congresswoman Amata’s office works in partnership with the American Samoa Department of Education to hold the competition, select several standouts, and determine one to represent American Samoa in Washington. American Samoa’s public and private high schools are invited to send entries for the competition.
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