The Samoa Region was blessed to receive a $20,000 WST grant from the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD) to run short-term programmes and activities promoting the goal of Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG). These initiatives were delivered through an integrated mission approach, supported by staff and officers from Regional Headquarters, Addiction Services, and Apia Corps, with help from dedicated volunteers.
Programmes Delivered:
Community Organisation Workshop – Ofisa i Foga’a Village
A two-day workshop brought together influential village leaders, faifeau, faletua, and youth, to become Village Champions. They were trained in a community organisation model and developed a campaign to address violence in their community. The campaign, partially funded by the grant, included banners, t-shirts, badges, and programme costs. Discussions explored the impact of colonisation, effective awareness strategies, and practical support for women and girls. Fifteen champions were trained and went on to run a successful campaign.
Youth Workshop – TSA Regional Headquarters
Sixty youth from various church denominations participated in workshops focused on family violence and their role in ending it. They were encouraged to use social media and the creative arts to raise awareness. The series concluded with a powerful community concert featuring original songs, poems, drama, dance, and art.
Apia Corps Talanoa
Adults and youth from Apia Corps attended a three-hour Sunday talanoa and workshop exploring family violence, parenting, and building strong, non-violent family relationships.
Faletalatala Programme – Addiction Services
TSA Addiction Services incorporated gender equity and EVAWG-focused sessions into their regular group brief intervention programme, providing clients with targeted educational resources.
These initiatives have sparked meaningful conversations, empowered local leaders and youth, and laid a strong foundation for ongoing community-led efforts to end violence against women and girls in Samoa.
By Captain Julie Turner