Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is delighted to congratulate the winners of the Malofie Congressional Art Competition for 2026, expressing appreciation to all the participating students, their teachers, the expert judges, the sponsors that make this opportunity possible for our students, and the American Samoa Council of Arts, Culture & Humanities.

This year’s first-place winner is Eve Filomena Snow, Tafuna High School for “The Beauty from One Generation to the Next.” Her first-place art will be displayed for a year at the U.S. Capitol! She has also won a special trip to Washington, D.C. to join all the other winners from the other congressional districts.

Congratulations also to Joshua Utuone, Fagaitua High School, who earned second place with his two-part artwork “The Deed of Cession,” and third place Christina Hudson, Tafuna High School with “Taema and Tilafaiga.” Rounding out the top five are fourth place, Amosa Feagaiga, Leone High School, and fifth place Kayla Letufuga, Leone High School.

“What a wonderful job by these winning students, and by the entire group of 26 participants. I love their beautiful artwork and their enthusiasm, and I’m so pleased with them all,” said Congresswoman Amata. “It was a special delight to be here in person for this competition. This event is a favorite of mine, and it is only possible especially though our local generous sponsors, as well as our artist judges, the art teachers and all American Samoa’s educators.”

“I will enjoy seeing Eve Filomena Snow’s beautiful first-place art displayed in the U.S. Capitol soon,” Amata continued. “I want to say a special thank you also to American Samoa Council of Arts, Culture & Humanities for welcoming us and helping make this a meaningful celebration of art and creativity.”

Each year, Congresswoman Amata and her local office work in partnership with the American Samoa Department of Education to select the top standouts, and under congressional rules, then determine just one to represent American Samoa in Washington. Any of American Samoa’s public and private high schools are invited to send entries for the competition.

Each participant receives a plaque from Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata, and various prizes from sponsors. Congresswoman Amata extends her warmest fa’afetai to the many businesses and individuals who donated and helped make this year’s Congressional Art Competition special for the students.