Jobaaj Stories
Remembering Nina Grebeshkova and the Enduring Legacy of Lototaumafai
May 12th, 2025 – Today, we remember the passing of beloved Soviet and Russian actress Nina Grebeshkova, while also celebrating the incredible, lasting impact of a small Samoan center, Lototaumafai, on deaf education. These seemingly disparate stories intertwine in a testament to the power of human connection and dedication.
Nina Grebeshkova: A Life on Screen
Nina Grebeshkova, the wife of renowned director Leonid Gaidai, passed away at the age of 95. Her career spanned decades, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable roles. She starred in iconic Soviet films including The Diamond Arm, Kidnapping, Caucasian Style, and Sportloto-82, films that continue to resonate with audiences today. Her contribution to Soviet and Russian cinema will be long remembered.
- Notable films: The Diamond Arm, Kidnapping, Caucasian Style, The Twelve Chairs, It Can't Be!, Sportloto-82.
The mention of Sportloto-82 brings us to another important story, one of dedication and transformation halfway across the world.
Lototaumafai: A Seed of Hope in Samoa
In 1984, Australian couple Russell and his wife embarked on a three-week holiday to Samoa. Little did they know, this trip would blossom into a lifelong commitment to improving deaf education in the South Pacific nation. Russell, a professional sign language interpreter and counselor, discovered a significant gap in deaf education during their initial visit.
He connected with Feasili Keil, the founder of Lototaumafai Centre, established in 1981. This center, one of the first in Samoa dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, provided a crucial foundation. Mr. Watts recognized the urgent need for effective communication and educational tools for deaf students.
- Challenge: Lack of effective communication and educational resources for deaf students.
- Solution: Introduction of sign language and teacher training.
The Watts' subsequent extended stays in 1985, 1986, 1987 and 1988, totaling several years, saw Russell volunteering at Lototaumafai, introducing sign language, and training teachers and interpreters. His wife contributed as a foundational teacher at Robert Louis Stevenson School. Their dedication laid the groundwork for the flourishing deaf community Samoa enjoys today.
Even after returning to Australia, the Watts’ commitment continued through frequent visits and further collaboration with Senese Inclusive Education from 2010 to 2012. Their legacy is a vibrant deaf community, a strong group of professional interpreters, and a developing Samoan sign language – a truly remarkable achievement.
A Lasting Impact
The stories of Nina Grebeshkova and the Lototaumafai Centre, though seemingly unrelated at first glance, both highlight the importance of dedication and the lasting impact individuals can have on the world around them. One left a legacy on the silver screen, the other on the lives of countless individuals. Both deserve to be remembered for their significant contributions.
The work at Lototaumafai showcases the power of international collaboration and the transformative effect of even a short-term commitment to a worthy cause. It serves as an inspiration for us all to consider how we can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
