Australia's International Fire Knife Competition
ABOUT TOA OLE AFI - PATI LEVASA
Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa is Australia’s first international fire knife competition, blazing into history in 2024 with a powerful showcase that captivated audiences around the world. More than a competition, it is a cultural movement—bringing together fire knife warriors from across the globe to celebrate, compete, and honor the sacred art of Siva Ailao Afi.
The vision began with Su'a Andrew Isaako, a proud descendant of a fire knife warrior lineage. Carrying the legacy of his ancestors, he asked a bold question: what if we brought this artform to Australia—on an international stage? With deep cultural conviction and determination, Su'a Andrew laid the foundation in 2023 and brought the vision to life in 2024. To carry the name and spirit of the event, he chose none other than Tautai Pati Levasa, a four-time world fire knife champion whose name symbolizes mastery, leadership, and cultural pride.
Siva Ailao Afi, the Samoan fire knife dance, is a fierce and beautiful expression of warrior spirit—mimicking our ancestors as they prepared for battle to protect and honour Samoa. Though deeply rooted in Samoan culture, it is celebrated throughout many Pacific nations, binding generations together through fire, rhythm, and storytelling.
Our mission is clear: to preserve, ignite, and pass on this sacred tradition to future generations. Toa Ole Afi exists to honour the warriors before us, those walking beside us today, and those still to come. This is a space where flames tell stories, warriors rise, and culture lives on.
Tautaimatapalapala Pati Levasa is a four-time World Fire Knife Champion, widely respected as one of the most skilled and influential figures in the art of Siva Ailao Afi. Renowned for his unmatched precision, power, and passion, Pati has inspired fire knife dancers across the Pacific and beyond.
Today, he continues his legacy not only through performance but also as a cultural leader. He serves as the Director of Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa, Australia's first and only international fire knife competition—an event named in his honour. Through this platform, Pati is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of fire knife warriors and preserving the spirit of the warrior dance for years to come.
"Su’a Andrew Isaako has been deeply connected to the art of Siva Ailao Afi since the age of five, when he was first taught by his older brother. What began as a childhood passion soon grew into a lifelong commitment, as he carried on the proud fire knife legacy rooted in his family. Hailing from a lineage of warriors from Pago Pago (American Samoa) and Maninoa, Siumu (Upolu, Samoa), Andrew represents a living bridge between tradition and future generations.
As a co-founder of the renowned Polynesian dance group Pou O Toa, Su’a Andrew has dedicated himself to showcasing and teaching Pacific culture through performance, storytelling, and fire knife dance. He is also the visionary founder and current director of Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa, Australia’s first and only international fire knife competition. Through this platform, Andrew aims to preserve and grow the legacy of Siva Ailao Afi—honouring the warriors before us and igniting the passion of those yet to come.
Leilua Su’a Maria Muagututia is the proud daughter of Lesoa Mose Seualuga and Fa’alelea Lesoa, hailing from a lineage deeply rooted in the art of Siva Ailao Afi. Her father, Lesoa Mose, is a legendary figure in the fire knife community—most notably remembered as one of the original teachers who helped shape the early journey of fire knife icon, Tautai Pati Levasa.
Carrying the pride of her family’s legacy, Maria has passed down this tradition to the next generation. Her eldest daughter, Melanie Tia, now walks in her grandfather’s footsteps, rising through the ranks of the fire knife world and earning titles on multiple stages. Through her family’s continued presence in the art, Maria remains a powerful figure in preserving and uplifting the cultural significance of Siva Ailao Afi for generations to come.
Auimatagi Ainsley Schwalger Mamea has played a vital role in the success of Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa, Australia’s first international fire knife competition. As a key member of the team behind the groundbreaking 2024 event, Ainsley has been instrumental in managing the competition's social media presence—helping to amplify its reach and connect audiences around the world to the rich culture of Siva Ailao Afi.
But Ainsley’s contributions extend far beyond the digital space. With a strong background in event coordination, she has also been a driving force behind the scenes—overseeing backstage operations, ensuring smooth transitions, and supporting performers and crew throughout the event. Her attention to detail, calm leadership, and dedication to the vision of Toa Ole Afi have made her an indispensable part of the team, embodying both professionalism and cultural pride.
Di Liumalo is the newest member of the Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa team, stepping into the role of Communications and Liaisons Manager. With a strong passion for cultural events and community engagement, Di brings fresh energy and strategic vision to the team as they prepare for the next chapter of Australia’s premier international fire knife competition.
Her role will focus on strengthening partnerships, enhancing communication between stakeholders, and ensuring seamless coordination as the event continues to grow on a global stage. Di is ready to take the team to full speed—supporting the mission to uplift Siva Ailao Afi and deliver an unforgettable experience for all involved in the upcoming competition.
Join us and be part of the flame!
Partner with Us – Ignite the Legacy Are you ready to stand with culture, community, and global talent? Toa Ole Afi – Pati Levasa isn’t just a competition—it’s a movement. As Australia’s first international fire knife event, we’re proud to showcase the warrior spirit of Siva Ailao Afi while building pathways for the next generation of performers, leaders, and cultural custodians. By becoming a sponsor, you’re not just supporting an event—you’re investing in tradition, empowerment, and world-class talent on a global stage.
