Our Mission

The mission statement of TOFA is to preserve and enhance the overall Pacific Islander Community in the Greater Sacramento area by providing resources that support and promote Health & Wellness, Higher Education, Community Leadership, Civil Rights Awareness, and Cultural Arts.

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At TOFA, we are rooted in the rich traditions and vibrant cultures of the Pacific Islander community. Our mission to preserve and enhance the overall Pacific Islander community in the Greater Sacramento area is built on a foundation of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). These principles guide us in our work to promote health and wellness, higher education, community leadership, civil rights awareness, and cultural arts.

We recognize that our strength lies in our differences. We honor and celebrate the unique identities, experiences, and perspectives of individuals from all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, age, physical and cognitive ability, and socioeconomic status.

TOFA envisions a thriving Pacific Islander community where everyone feels empowered to lead, learn, and grow. By embracing DEIA, we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also create a more equitable and inclusive future for generations to come.

Our Founder

Our Mission

The late Catherine 'Ofa Mann, affectionately known as 'Ofa, originated from the Kingdom of Tonga in the South Pacific. In the mid-1990s, 'Ofa and her family relocated to Sacramento from New Zealand, where she swiftly connected with the API community. Grounded in her religious faith and devoted to her family, 'Ofa naturally felt compelled to address the needs of Pacific Islander youth in the Sacramento community. Her welcoming home became a haven for many, where unconditional love prevailed.

For over two decades, 'Ofa served as the founder and President of TOFA, dedicating her life to the Sacramento API community. Beyond this, she actively supported various community non-profits, achieving the distinction of being the first Pacific Islander appointed to a California Commission by Governor Schwarzenegger. In 2010, the California State Assembly honored 'Ofa with the API Heritage Award for Excellence in Public Service. Her absence is deeply felt, but her impactful legacy will endure in our memories.

Our History

Our Mission

Our History

To'utupu 'oe 'Otu Felenite Association(TOFA) means Youth Leaders of the Pacific.

Officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on October 6, 2000, TOFA arose to fill a crucial void in the Sacramento area's Pacific Island community. At its inception over 24 years ago, TOFA recognized the absence of a community organization capable of addressing the language and cultural challenges encountered by many Pacific Islanders, particularly the youth, in their journey toward becoming productive members of society.

Since its inception, TOFA has consistently delivered essential support to the API community, even in times when resources and assistance were limited. The enduring success of TOFA for over two decades is credited to its dedicated Board and the collective efforts of those who support their cause. Moving forward, TOFA remains steadfast in its mission, committing to excellence as it continues to educate and mentor API youth, nurturing them into future community leaders.

Meet our Board

Lisa Hafoka, President

Lucy Oback, VP Operations/Treasurer

Lisa Hafoka was elected TOFA's President in October 2022. She has been a Board Member since its inception in 2000. Over the years Lisa's responsibilities have included administrative support for all of TOFA programs including Co-Chair for TOFA Ambassadors 2021-2022, Health Fair Chair 2011, member of the TOFA luau and Scholarship committees, Cultural Arts performer, and assistant to her mother, former TOFA President and Founder, the late 'Ofa Mann. Lisa has a Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University Idaho in Family and Human Services.

Lucy Oback, VP Operations/Treasurer

Lucy Oback is Vice President of Operations for TOFA and Vice President of the US-China Railroad Friendship Association (UCRFA). She previously served in leadership roles with APAPA, including National Executive Director (2016–2017), National President (2012–2014), and Statewide President (2008–2012). Lucy was also Chair of the APAPA-Community Education Foundation Internship and Scholarship Program.

She has held leadership positions with the Ong Ko Met Benevolent Association and the Asian Pacific State Employees Association (APSEA). Lucy retired as a Tax Administrator from the Employment Development Department and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from USC.

'Alisi Wolfgramm, Secretary

Lucy Oback, VP Operations/Treasurer

'Alisi Wolfgramm, Secretary

'Alisi is TOFA's Secretary and has been an important bridge to the community and has serviced in various capacities since TOFA's establishment in 2000. Her contributions to TOFA have included cultural arts performances and costume design. As a founding Board Member, she brings years of experience in support of TOFA's Executive Board of Directors and Program Chairs, 'Alisi concurrently serves as a member of the TOFA Scholarship Committee.

Vise Mann, Cultural Arts

Eliza Cocker, TOFA Scholarships

'Alisi Wolfgramm, Secretary

Vise Mann, a founding member of the TOFA Board, serves as the Cultural Art Chair overseeing the Cultural Arts program that encompasses the diverse traditions of Pacific Islander dance, history, art, and more. Vise is a talented performer and instructor and has taught dance over the years to hundreds of children, youth, and adults dedicating numerous hours to performances showcasing and celebrating our rich Polynesian heritage.

Vise and her team of traditional dance experts help pass on cultural traditional through the art of dancing to the children.

Eliza Cocker, TOFA Scholarships

Eliza Cocker, Scholarship Chair for TOFA brings a passion for empowering the next generation of leaders through education by promoting scholarship and internship programs.

Eliza brings years of experience in educational training programs and internships for disadvantaged youth and college students in a research-focused setting. She understands the need to bring awareness to the PI community about educational opportunities. She holds a degree in Ethic Studies with an emphasis on Pacific Studies reflecting her commitment to promoting cultural understanding and academic advancement.

Luisa Lavulo, Ambassadors

Eliza Cocker, TOFA Scholarships

Luisa Lavulo, a California native has served as the Chairwoman of TOFA's Ambassadors Program for over 4 years now. She was raised in Minnesota and received the majority of her education while living there.

Since returning to Sacramento in 2000, she married her husband Ronald Lavulo and together are raising their five children for the past 16 years in Sacramento's District 8. Luisa is commonly known for her strong musical background, but her passion is her family.

Balancing a house full of children, Luisa is dedicated to making her community a more sustainable and future-focused environment.

She loves serving as a youth leader at her church and Commissioner for the Arts Culture and Creative Economy in District 8.

Tevita Fakalata, Education

The late Tevita Fakalata served as the Vice President of Education at TOFA for many years, providing advisement and mentorship over various educational initiatives. Tevita has presided over TOFA's past education conferences and scholarship fundraisers for an extended period. As one of the founding members of TOFA's Board, he contributed valuable wisdom and guidance, acting as a vital link to the broader Pacific Islander community in Sacramento. His guidance and leadership will be greatly missed.

This position holds a vacancy for the time being.