Modern Traditions

RIP Trina 😭😭💔💔🕊️

We lovingly cherish in our hearts the memory of Leia Trysiss Ali. Only 17 years old when she was crowned Miss S.O.F.I.A.S in 2008, Leia was one of the youngest contestants in SOFIAS history to attain the title. A graduate of Leone High School she was part of the "Flower Puff Girls" a popular group of adolescent fa'afafine performers during the late 2000's known for their vibrant and high energy dancing productions.

At the night of the 2008 pageant, Leia's costumes were designed and sponsored by former Miss S.O.F.I.A.S Shiki Leaupepe a partnership that would spark the evolution of "Shiki's Coutoure" in American Samoa. Part of her answer during interview was "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss you'll land among the stars." It was the winning answer and she swept the pageant winning three of the categories including the title. After her reign, Leia traveled with the Flower Puff Girls to Las Vegas where she competed for Miss Las Vegas International Island Goddess pageant and placed 1st runner-up. Vegas is where she would also call home for the next 16 years of her life.

Leia was only 35 years old when she passed away suddenly yesterday. Born and raised in American Samoa she was of Fijian/Indian descent -- yet her heart and soul was Samoan through and through. To those who knew her well Leia was a loving, giving and kind human being. To the admirer she was a sight of beauty and dreams. For many of us, she will be remembered as our beautiful queen in a organization which will forever immortalize her name.

Ia manuia lau malaga Leia, may your journey home be filled with how much you were loved. We convey our most deepest condolences to her mother Annette, her father and siblings. May you all be comforted by God's grace and healing during such a difficult loss.