TOA O LE AFI – Pati Levasa International Fire Knife Competition was born from a passion for preserving Samoan heritage while celebrating the artistry, skill, and courage of fire knife performers. Rooted in the traditional Samoan Siva Afi (fire knife dance), the competition transforms an age-old cultural ritual into a modern international event, bringing performers from across the Pacific and beyond together on one stage.
Founded by Pati Levasa, a master fire knife champion, TOA O LE AFI is more than just a competition — it’s a platform for cultural expression, community connection, and personal achievement. Each year, participants of all ages showcase their talent, dedication, and creativity, while audiences experience the energy, precision, and spectacle of this breathtaking art form.
Our mission is simple: to empower performers, celebrate Samoan tradition, and create a global stage where culture and skill shine together. Through TOA O LE AFI, we aim to inspire the next generation of performers, foster cultural pride, and build bridges between communities through the universal language of performance.
Take the next step and become part of an event that celebrates courage, culture, and excellence. Register now and join a community that keeps the fire of tradition burning strong.
Like the sacred art of fire knife dance, life calls for courage through trials. Each flicker of flame teaches resilience, as performers embrace the heat to refine skill and presence. Our competition brings this metaphor to life, where bravery, beauty, and strength unite, reflecting the enduring spirit of our community and inspiring the next generation.
We honour Pasifika traditions and extend inclusion to all cultures, amplifying intercultural respect worldwide.
Through mentorship, workshops, and visible role models, we nurture confident young leaders rooted in history and grounded in community.
We ensure Ailao Afi remains a living tradition, evolving with innovation yet anchored in ancestral storytelling.
Our event celebrates those who overcome fear, challenge norms, and refine their craft, teaching us all that greatness is born from endurance.