Vaiana Yazdani

Every morning, the roosters crow before dawn, and the cool air carries the scent of the ocean mixed with the fragrance of frangipani. As I open my eyes, I take a deep breath, savoring the peace before the day's chaos begins. Life in Samoa is beautiful but challenging, especially when you are waging a personal battle against obesity.

Growing up, I never thought much about my weight. In our culture, being big was a sign of prosperity. My grandmother used to say, “The bigger you are, the more respect you command.” At 35, I now realize that respect should not come at the cost of my health.

I used to weigh over 120 kilos, standing at only 1.54 meters tall. Each step felt like a burden, each breath a struggle. Social gatherings, which are central to our way of life, became sources of anxiety rather than joy. The constant emphasis on food, from weddings to funerals, made it hard to resist overindulgence. But three months ago, I decided to change my life.

With the help of a clinic, I’ve shed 40 kilos so far. It’s a significant milestone, but I still have a way to go to reach my ideal weight of 55 kilos. My journey has not been easy, but each kilo lost feels like a victory. Our society still equates fat with wealth and power, but there is a growing awareness among the younger generation about the health risks of obesity.

I am channeling my experience into something positive. I'm setting up a wellness store that offers traditional Samoan body care, massages, detox, and weight loss programs. Everything I offer is made from 100 percent local organic ingredients. My aim is to help others lead healthier lives, integrating our rich cultural heritage with modern health practices.

Stepping outside, the early morning sun kisses my skin. I feel lighter, not just in body, but in spirit. The journey continues, and with each step, I am reminded that true strength lies not in the size of our bodies, but in the size of our hearts and our determination.