So you understand some (most?) Samoan but struggle to speak it fluently. Maybe you grew up hearing it at home but never quite mastered it yourself. Now you’re trying to teach your kids, and you realize you got some catching up to do.
You’re in the right place.
Welcome to Gagana Samoa.
What We’re Building
Gagana-Samoa is a comprehensive Samoan language resource with a searchable dictionary, grammar guides, interactive lessons, and cultural context. The kind of resource I wish I had twenty years ago when I decided to really figure out my own heritage language.
Our collection includes:
- A dictionary with audio pronunciations from native speakers (my mom and my cousins, actually)
- Grammar guides that actually make sense (cause I’m writing them out for me, too)
- Lessons for practical conversation skills
- Stories and cultural context so you understand the why behind the words
It’s a Labour of Love
Gagana Samoa has been a dream and an idea in my brain and a passion project for me since the late 2000s, and it’s FINALLY coming together how I imagined it could, but this resource is not perfect. It won’t be for a while. Language is complicated, culture is nuanced, and we’re still building.
But we’re doing our best to make if valuable! I’m working with grammar resources, native speaking expert Samoan language reviewers, professional translators, and a system in place to continuously refine and correct everything we’re sharing here.
The goal is not perfection (although we’re still aiming for it!) it’s to be the most useful Samoan language resource online.
Our Approach
Learning your heritage language is a fundamental human right. The core language resources on this site – the dictionary, the database of grammar rules, the lessons and games – will always be free!
But we’re also looking at creating more premium learning experiences to supercharge your learning and your ability to pass your language on to your family and children. Sign up for our mailing list to look out for those product releases.
A Little Background
This project grew out of twenty years of exploration, discovery and ambition. I started blogging about Samoan culture as “Hamo Geek Girl” back when I was just trying to figure out my own cultural identity. Now we have the technology and knowledge to build the dream!
Ready to explore? Check out our dictionary or browse lessons if you prefer structure.
Enjoy!
– Lilieni (Lils)