Talofa lava! We’re Sio and Sarah Vaelua - Welcome!
Sio's journey began in Lower Hutt before moving to Whanganui. Raised in the Congregational Church of Samoa (Presbyterian), he later pursued a BA in media studies and English, initially aiming for a career in journalism. However, his heart found it’s calling in youth work. With great faith, he founded Rize, a life coaching/youth work business, which has since evolved into a vital social service in schools, impacting Pacific families, teachers, and students alike. Sio's passion lies in speaking life into high schools, viewing each day as his mission field.
In 2021 – Sio and I completed our theological training at Alphacrucis College and were ordained as Ministers within Assemblies of God. As for me, my roots in Salt Church run deep. Just one week after my birth, I attended my first service here. It has always been my family of faith. Over the years, I've been involved in various roles within our church, from volunteering in Salt Kids and Pre-teens to serving as the Salt youth pastor for a decade. Presently, I work as a registered Social Worker and professional supervisor within our community.
In 2021, Sio and I were honored to step into the role of Senior Pastors at Salt Church. Sio and I met while studying at Massey University – it was pretty much love at first sight! We’ve been married for 12 years and have three boys that mean the world to us - Luca, Hosea & Louie, and a baby girl on her way!
We love life here in Papaioea!