Honouring Seumalu Shelley Burich
Seumalu Shelley Burich
Honouring the Legacy of Sumalu Shelley Burich
It is with deep sadness that PCF marks the passing of our Board member, Seumalu Shelley Burich. Shelley was a valued colleague, a trusted advisor, and an inspiring leader whose work has strengthened communities across Samoa and the Pacific. Her legacy is one of empowerment, service, and enduring commitment to Pacific peoples.
A Champion for Women and Communities
Shelley dedicated much of her career to supporting and uplifting women, particularly in Samoa. She understood the unique challenges that Pacific women entrepreneurs face and worked tirelessly to create pathways for their success. Through training, mentorship, and advocacy, she championed opportunities for women to participate fully in business and community life.
Her leadership inspired many Samoan women to start and grow their enterprises, often for the first time. Shelley firmly believed that empowering women meant empowering entire families and villages – and she lived that belief every day.
Leading with Vaoala Vanilla
Shelley’s leadership at Vaoala Vanilla was a powerful example of her vision and innovation. What began as a small family venture grew under her guidance into a business that demonstrated how Pacific agricultural products could reach global markets while staying true to local values.
Vaoala Vanilla became a model for sustainable farming in Samoa, creating new opportunities for vanilla farmers to earn livelihoods and connect with international buyers. Shelley invested in training and support for local farmers, building confidence and skills that allowed them to meet global standards.
Her success story captured the attention of the world: Vaoala Vanilla beans were selected to be served at Buckingham Palace for His Majesty the King. This was vanilla fit for royalty, grown from the soil of Samoa and nurtured through Shelley’s determination. It was a fitting symbol of her tenacity, advocacy, and relentless drive to showcase the excellence of Pacific products on the global stage.
One farmer once remarked that working with Shelley was like “being given permission to dream bigger” – a testament to her ability to see potential where others might see limitations.
A Meeting That Changed Our Path
For me, as CEO of PCF, Shelley’s journey with us began during a Global Women Breakthrough Leaders trip. I had the privilege of listening to her share her talanoa about business, women’s empowerment, and her vision for the Pacific.
That conversation was powerful and deeply grounding. It reminded me of the importance of bringing regional voices and entrepreneurial experience directly into our governance. It was from that moment that I knew Shelley’s wisdom and perspective were exactly what PCF needed. I reached out and asked her to join our Board — a decision that gave us not only her expertise but also a stronger, more authentic regional touch.
Advocacy Across the Pacific
Beyond Samoa, Shelley was a strong regional voice. She represented the perspectives of Pacific women and grassroots communities at regional and international forums, ensuring that their voices were heard in decision-making spaces. Her contributions consistently reminded stakeholders that development is not abstract – it is about people, families, and communities.
Her advocacy combined authenticity and pragmatism, rooted in her own lived experience as both an entrepreneur and a community leader.
Her Contribution to PCF
At Pacific Cooperation Foundation, Shelley’s guidance on the Board was invaluable. She consistently encouraged us to amplify Pacific voices, keep communities at the heart of our programmes, and pursue partnerships that reflect the strength and mana of our region.
Shelley’s presence on our Board was marked by generosity of spirit, deep wisdom, and a firm belief in the potential of Pacific peoples. She leaves an enduring imprint on PCF’s mission to strengthen identity, deepen relationships, and amplify voices.
A Lasting Legacy
As an organisation, we are grateful for Shelley’s service and leadership. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the legacy she leaves behind – a legacy of empowerment, courage, and dedication to her people and her region.
Fa’afetai tele lava, Shelley. Your vision and commitment will continue to inspire our work, and your impact will be felt across generations.
Rest in peace, Seumalu Shelley Burich – Board member, leader, and friend.
A Personal Note from the CEO
On a personal note, I will miss Shelley’s presence deeply. She had a rare gift of combining wisdom with warmth, and of grounding conversations with truth, courage, and vision. Our talanoa was always rich with insight, laughter, and a shared commitment to seeing Pacific peoples thrive.
I will always carry with me the lessons she taught — about resilience, about lifting women and communities, and about daring to dream bigger. Her voice will continue to guide me, and I am grateful for the privilege of having walked alongside her as a colleague, mentor, and friend.
— Joanna Bourke, Chief Executive, Pacific Cooperation Foundation