Dr Piukala reflected on his achievement and acknowledges the mentorship and experiences throughout his career as being a key contribution to his success. 

"It has been a long journey and I remember after the election, I reflected on the saying of how it takes a village to raise a child. And that village was not just the one in Va'vau, but my experiences and the people that I've worked with over these many years. This success is not just my own doing. 

"I have great respect for the mentors who I have learned from throughout the years, the likes of Lord Tangi, Dr Kiki Maoate and Sir Collin Tukuitonga. This is a blessing not just for me, but for all of us and all of the Pacific; I am very grateful for the opportunity to represent our people." 

PMA Patron, Lord Tangi 'o Vaonukonuka, says Dr Piukala is more than deserving of the role. 

"We advocated and pushed for Dr Saia to put his name forward for the role and we are so proud that he was successfully elected into the position.  

"It's been a long journey for all of us in the Pacific and we've worked very hard to have our voices heard and our needs understood. This is a significant milestone and his contribution will be invaluable for the Pacific region." 

PMA CEO, Debbie Sorensen, says Dr Piukala's successful appointment into the role speaks to his diplomacy and leadership.  

"He stepped forward and took that challenge and to be successful in something so historic, it will be read about for years to come in the history of the WHO. We have never had a Pacific person appointed at this level in the organization so this is not only monumental for Tonga, but for the region." 

"Saia deserves this position on his own merits and his work in the region. We are beyond proud. He is a PMA Life Member, he is a son of the Pacific, he is one of our sons. PMA has been absolutely privileged and honoured to support not only the campaign but to support the work of the future." 

Check out our Facebook page for photos from the celebration.