Felolina To’ua-Kalava
Bachelor of Business
Start-up: Laumalie Swim
Felolina To’ua-Kalava, a proud Samoan and Kiwi, hopes her Pacific-inspired swimwear will champion sustainability and cultural pride and bring about a change in the way consumers view their swimwear, too.
The young entrepreneur is driven by her heritage, and her business journey began when she was young with frequent trips between New Zealand and Samoa, where she was encouraged to embrace her identity and culture in every aspect of her life.
“Ever since I was young, I was always encouraged to embrace who I am and where I’m from,” Felolina reflects. “Going back and forth to Samoa as a child, I saw how my people use the environment for cooking, crafts and their lifestyle. It inspired the sustainable sense in my brand.”
Her business, Laumalie Swim, centres around sustainability and cultural storytelling. “Our designs are reversible, meaning you get multiple looks in one. We use materials that don’t go to waste and celebrate cultures, so our customers feel connected to the ocean and environment,” Felolina explains.
The brand draws inspiration from the Samoan myth of the turtle and the shark, which symbolises protection, guidance and the sacred bond to the ocean. “These values are at the heart of my brand and guide our production practices,” she says.
Felolina’s entrepreneurial journey was nurtured at AUT, where she is studying a Bachelor of Business with a major in marketing. “My passion for business started in high school. A group of classmates and I launched a hair product business that received really good feedback online, especially on TikTok. That inspired me to create something meaningful and bring it to life,” she shares.
Through The King’s Trust and the AUT Ara Tipu programme, Felolina has found invaluable support. “I’m truly grateful to be part of this experience and opportunity. I never thought I’d be standing here a year ago. It was only a small idea while I was at uni, and seeing it come to life with the help of The King’s Trust has been amazing,” she says.
Felolina’s vision extends beyond a single business. “I love community. I love seeing the needs and gaps others need fulfilled. Business is being able to connect people and embrace culture while doing so.”
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