Kaili Iliganoa Shansonga has been selected by the American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C., to represent American Samoa as the Cherry Blossom Princess at the 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., according to an announcement from Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata on April 2.
The selection highlights the ongoing efforts of the Samoan community in the Washington metropolitan area to celebrate and share their heritage during a major national event. The coronation ceremony took place on March 28 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Bethesda, Maryland.
Congresswoman Amata thanked Isapela Coggins, president of The American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C., for her “ongoing 14 years of leadership, dedication, and commitment to the society,” noting that Coggins’s service dates back over four decades. Amata also recognized outgoing 2025 Cherry Blossom Princess Delegate Saleilona Elizabeth Williams for her contributions representing American Samoa.
Shansonga is a recent graduate with a degree in Architecture from The Catholic University of America. She was born in Takoma Park, Maryland and raised both there and in England. Her family has longstanding ties to both Maryland and American Samoa through several generations. Shansonga said she is “always eager to experiment with unique materials, colors and innovative techniques” and described herself as someone who seeks new ways to express creativity.
Reflecting on her new role, Shansonga said: “I strive to be able to use my platform to uplift others, share the beauty of my Samoan culture, and inspire young people to pursue both creative and professional goals.” She added that she hopes “to bring cultural representation, humility, and authenticity” to this year’s program.
Shansonga expressed gratitude for being chosen as princess delegate: “I am grateful and thankful…for this amazing opportunity…to represent American Samoa…at the 2026 National Conference of State and Territorial Societies Cherry Blossom Princess Delegate Program.” She looks forward “to meeting other Cherry Blossom Princess Delegates during the week of the program (April 4th to April 11th), build relationships and share our Samoan culture.”
Amata concluded by congratulating Shansonga: “She represents our people and culture beautifully,” adding thanks for those who support cultural traditions in Northern Virginia, DC, Maryland—and especially Kaili “for making sure our beautiful islands and our culture are well represented…at the festival.”
