Stephanie Mafili’s musical odyssey is a heartfelt homage to her family’s vibrant legacy, deeply rooted in faith, harmony, and a passionate love for music. As the daughter of the late gospel composer Metuisela Kawa To’amotua Mafili and niece to former Black Rose vocalist Freddy Kado, Stephanie’s path seemed predestined towards a life filled with melodies. Her father’s passing in 2022, alongside her uncle’s significant influence, has profoundly shaped her musical aspirations.
From early childhood, Stephanie was immersed in the world of music, a passion kindled by her father’s deep devotion and the family tradition of singing in church. “My father was a well-known pastor and gospel artist, so singing in church was part of our life growing up,” she recalls, painting a picture of her formative years filled with family harmonies. At just nine years old, she had her first foray into recording, setting the stage for her musical journey.
The Mafili family’s musical heritage includes a lineage of singers and composers, a legacy now entrusted to Stephanie. Her university days saw this connection grow stronger as she joined her cousins to form a group named Couź, where they harmonized and bonded over their shared musical roots.
Though hesitant at first to compose, it was her father’s encouragement that led her to explore songwriting—a pursuit she has embraced over the past year. The process, she notes, feels instinctive, often sparked by memories of her father. While none of her songs have been released yet, her efforts are focused on bringing these compositions to fruition.
Stephanie’s honed musical skills, nurtured within her home and church, found a new expression with her live debut at Gloria Jean’s Cafe alongside her uncle Freddy. Performing beyond familiar realms challenged her but also provided opportunities for growth in maintaining focus and professionalism.
Her uncle Freddy serves as a pivotal mentor, imparting technical musical knowledge and providing indispensable guidance. After the loss of her parents, Freddy’s role transcended that of an uncle, becoming a parental figure for Stephanie and her siblings.
Determined to uphold her father’s legacy, Stephanie is set on recording his compositions with her sisters, honoring his trust. Her priority remains nurturing her family’s musical lineage, with dreams of collaborating closely with her talented relatives.
Despite facing the profound loss of her parents, Stephanie draws strength from her musical lineage and the enduring bond with her sisters. Singing the old Fijian songs taught by her father continues to be a tribute to his influence in her life.
Stephanie’s narrative is a testament to resilience and dedication in preserving her family’s storied musical legacy. Her journey underscores the transformative power of music as a means of connecting generations, serving as a poignant reminder that through song, cherished memories remain alive.