Straight-up women NIVA & BEATRIC E'S BRAVE STAND

The besties are like two peas in a podcast, sharing deep and meaningfuls with the nation

- Rebekah Hebenton

As a Commonwealth Games gold medallist and an award-winning journalist, Beatrice Faumuina and Niva Retimanu know what it takes to make it to the top of their fields. Now, the longtime friends have joined forces to take over the podcast world.

“I believe this was meant to be part of our journey together,” tells Niva. “I’ve been in radio for 37 years as a journalist and this has been the best thing for me in terms of growth. And I really think we’re making a difference.”

Beatrice and Niva met 15 years ago when they were introduced by a mutual friend who knew the pair would hit it off. She was right and they’ve been thick as thieves ever since, bonding over their work in mental health awareness and their advocacy for their Samoan community.

“There are very few people in the Samoan and Pacific community in media, so our paths were always destined to cross,” explains Niva.

At the Weekly photoshoot, it’s easy to see why they’ve been friends for so many years. While they both make light-hearted jokes about each other, Niva and Beatrice also don’t shy away from going deep, and are quick to compliment each other.