Success Stories

 MALO E LELEI I am Latu Latavao, a resident of Pangaimotu, Vava'u Island, Tonga, born to Siolangi and Neiafu Latavao. I was raised in Vava'u and received my education at Tailulu College before transferring to Liahona High School in 2023. I am grateful to 'Isi Fatani for introducing my family to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I also extend my appreciation to Coach Mosese Naeata and his daughter, Fakaola Vaitai, for recognizing my potential and pushing me to achieve more than I thought possible. 

In the past year, I have earned 2 Gold Medals and 1 Bronze, and this year, with the skills I have developed and the goals I have set for myself, I am aiming for 5 Gold Medals in the 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1500 meter events, as well as success in 2 relay races. Despite the challenges, I am confident that with the guidance of Coach Naeata and your support, I will reach my objectives. 

I am also thankful for the financial assistance provided by Liahona Give Back, which has inspired me to give my best in return for their generous support. dated on: MARCH 2024 

 I, Sila Seti Pangai Jr., am a fourteen-year-old student currently enrolled at Liahona High School in Form 4. My parents, Sila and Toakase Pangai, hail from Ha'akame & Mapelu mo e Lau, Tongatapu, and I am the fifth child out of six siblings. Both of my older siblings have successfully completed their missions and are now pursuing their studies at BYUH. Meanwhile, my third sibling is currently serving as a full-time missionary, and the fourth sibling is enrolled at Layton Christian Academy with support from Liahona Give Back. My remaining sibling and I continue our education. Our household often accommodates students from distant places who come to reside near the school. 

Despite financial challenges, my parents strive to provide for us and our companions. They have instilled in me the belief that serving others is akin to serving God. My brother and I have been fortunate to receive sponsorship through the Liahona Give Back scholarship program. Mrs. Saane Boyer sponsored us in 2022, and Mr. FOTU Kuliha'apai supported my full-year tuition in 2023. This assistance has greatly alleviated the financial burden on my parents in caring for all six of us children and our friends. 

I am grateful for the exposure to sports that my parents have provided, giving me the opportunity to strive for a brighter future and help alleviate their hardships. I consider it my obligation to excel in both academics and athletics, given the investment that many individuals have made in students, including myself. It is my way of demonstrating gratitude and ensuring that their generosity is put to good use. I am profoundly thankful for the transformative impact of this noble initiative, which has brought great relief to many, including my own family. With deepest gratitude, I express my thanks and pray for continued success in achieving my aspirations. 

My name is Daniel Cocker and I originate from the village of Vaini, Tongatapu. I am thankful for the unwavering support of my parents, Tevita and Lily Cocker, in nurturing my talents. In the 2023 intercollege sports competition, I participated in the 400 and 800 relay events. Miraculously, I achieved success by winning the gold medal in the 400 meters and the silver medal in the 800 meters.

I am grateful for the guidance and support provided by the Master Coach of Liahona, Junior Pahulu, and others who have recognized and nurtured my potential, enabling me to overcome challenges. In the upcoming year, my goal is to achieve gold medals in each heat of the 200, 400, and 800 relay events.

I am indebted to Liahona Give Back for alleviating my family's financial difficulties and allowing me to excel academically and athletically, as well as serve as a positive influence on my peers.

We’re excited to share that a full-ride Scholarship to play rugby in Japan has been awarded to Paea Fotofili a student at Liahona High School. The scholarship were selected based upon his outstanding sport achievements and other eligibility requirements. He will depart to Japan next Wednesday. 

A big thank you to Benhur Kivalu and the Liahona Give Back organization for their effort in making this happen!