Indigenous to Indigenous: Building Trade and Connection in Samoa

In 2017 and 2018, I had the opportunity to lead a powerful cross-cultural school camp experience between Donvale Christian College (Victoria) and communities in Samoa. These trips were more than overseas excursions — they were an early expression of Indigenous-to-Indigenous trade, learning, and connection.

The program was built on the philosophy of service learning — a model that combines education with meaningful contribution. It created space for young people to engage with Samoan culture, values, and community life in ways that were relational, hands-on, and grounded in mutual respect.

A New Model for Global First Nations Exchange

What made this experience so impactful was the way it positioned First Peoples from different nations as equal partners in knowledge exchange. We weren’t there to "help" — we were there to connect, listen, learn, and share.

Over two years, we returned with students, educators, and community leaders — planting the seeds for long-term Indigenous-to-Indigenous trade and cultural partnerships. These programs opened doors not only for the students involved but for everyone seeking a more values-led approach to international engagement.

We showed that cross-cultural connection doesn’t have to rely on charity — it can be built on respect, exchange, and shared strength.