The eighth delivery of the Solomon Islands Senior Executive Women in Leadership Programme is underway in Honiara, with 18 senior...
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Valapata Youth Hub receives a 15HP outboard motor to improve transport and support youth development activities Valapata, Vella la Vella Island, Western Province – The Valapata Youth Hub Center received a major boost to its operations following the official handover of a 15HP Outboard Motor (OBM) engine during a ceremony held at the Youth Hub [...]
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BY TONY IROGA
The Kaloka Youth Association of Isabel province yesterday officially acknowledged the efforts of software engineering student Mr. Adrian Obadiah, whose dedication and commitment led to the development of the association’s new website.
In an interview with Island Sun, Mr Obadiah shared his story about developing the website for the association.
Mr. Obadiah, who hails from Isabel Province is currently in his final year of Software Engineering studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Fiji.
He said the project was driven by a desire to give back to his community rather than to make money.
“This website came from the heart.
“It’s one thing to build something for financial gain, but it’s another to build something without expecting payment because you genuinely want to contribute to your community,” he said.
Mr. Obadiah said the inspiration behind the project came after the passing of his mother last year, when members of the Kaloka community united to support his family during their time of grief.
“When my mum passed away, the people of Kaloka came together and supported us from the very first night. Their kindness touched my heart and made me realise I should also give back to my community.
“As part of the community myself, this is my way of saying thank you,” he said.
Developing the website was not without challenges. Mr. Obadiah said balancing his university studies, internship and the website project required strong time management and determination.
“I was studying in Fiji, completing my internship and preparing for exams while building the website from scratch. Time management was my biggest challenge, but I stayed motivated because this project was special to me,” he said.
Unlike many software projects that involve teams of developers, Mr. Obadiah completed the entire website on his own.
“I developed everything from scratch right through to the production stage. It was a solo project, and I’m grateful I was able to complete it,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support provided by the Kaloka Youth Association, particularly in helping to cover infrastructure costs such as web hosting, servers, domain registration and custom email services.
“I didn’t charge the association for developing the website because this was my contribution to the community. The association supported me with the infrastructure needed to keep the website online, while I personally invested in the software tools and subscriptions used throughout the development” he said.
Mr. Obadiah said the website will continue to be updated with information about the association’s activities, missions and vision as it works to create more opportunities for young people.
He encourages Solomon Islands students studying overseas to return home and use their skills to serve their communities.
“My message to students is to make the most of your education overseas and come back to give back to your communities. Don’t just come home and take a selfie—use what you’ve learned to make a difference,” he said.
Mr. Obadiah also expressed gratitude to his family, friends, his partner and the Kaloka community for their encouragement throughout the project.
“I would like to thank my family, loved ones, friends and my partner for standing by me through every challenge. Above all, I thank God for giving me the knowledge, wisdom and understanding to reach this point,” he said.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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作者:托尼·伊罗加
所罗门岛伊莎贝尔省的卡洛卡青年协会昨日正式表彰了软件工程学生阿德里安·奥巴迪亚(Mr. Adrian Obadiah)的努力,他的奉献和承诺促成了该协会新网站的开发。
在接受《岛屿太阳》采访时,奥巴迪亚分享了他为协会开发网站的故事。
来自伊莎贝尔省的奥巴迪亚目前正在南太平洋大学(University of the South Pacific,USP)攻读软件工程专业的最后一年。
他说,这个项目是出于回馈社区的愿望,而不是为了赚钱。
“这个网站是发自内心的。
“为了经济利益而建造某样东西是一回事,但无偿建造某样东西,因为你真心想为社区做贡献又是另一回事,”他说。
奥巴迪亚表示,项目的灵感来源于去年他母亲去世后,卡洛卡社区的成员团结起来支持他的家庭度过悲痛时刻。
“当我妈妈去世时,卡洛卡的人们从第一晚就聚在一起支持我们。他们的善良感动了我,让我意识到我也应该回馈我的社区。
“作为社区的一员,这就是我表达感谢的方式,”他说。
开发网站并非没有挑战。奥巴迪亚表示,平衡大学学习、实习和网站项目需要强大的时间管理和决心。
“我在斐济学习,完成实习,同时准备考试,边从零开始构建网站。时间管理是我最大的挑战,但我保持了动力,因为这个项目对我来说特别重要,”他说。
与许多需要开发团队的软件项目不同,奥巴迪亚独自完成了整个网站。
“我从头开始开发所有内容,直到生产阶段。这是一个独立项目,我很感激我能够完成它,”他说。
他还感谢卡洛卡青年协会提供的支持,特别是在帮助支付基础设施费用方面,如网站托管、服务器、域名注册和定制电子邮件服务。
“我没有向协会收取开发网站的费用,因为这是我对社区的贡献。协会支持我提供保持网站在线所需的基础设施,而我个人投资了开发过程中使用的软件工具和订阅,”他说。
奥巴迪亚表示,网站将继续更新有关协会活动、使命和愿景的信息,以创造更多年轻人的机会。
他鼓励在海外学习的所罗门群岛学生回国,利用他们的技能服务于社区。
“我对学生的寄语是,充分利用你们在海外的教育,回国回馈社区。不要只是回家拍自拍——利用你们所学的知识来改变现状,”他说。
奥巴迪亚还对他的家人、朋友、伴侣和卡洛卡社区在整个项目中的鼓励表示感谢。
“我想感谢我的家人、爱人、朋友和伴侣在每一个挑战中支持我。最重要的是,我感谢上帝赐予我知识、智慧和理解,使我能够达到这一点,”他说。
照片来源:托尼·伊罗加
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Solomon Airlines is celebrating another significant milestone in its aviation history, with First Officer Lyndah Tito Owen becoming the airline’s first local female pilot to commence Airbus A320 line training.
The milestone was marked this week when international services IE711 from Auckland to Port Vila and IE723 from Port Vila to Honiara were operated by Captain Claudia Walding and First Officer Lyndah Tito Owen,the airline’s only two female Airbus A320 pilots.
The flights represent another proud achievement for Solomon Airlines as Lyndah begins her transition to the airline’s international jet operations alongside Captain Walding, Solomon Airlines’ first female Airbus A320 Captain.
The achievement reflects Solomon Airlines’ ongoing commitment to developing local aviation talent and creating opportunities for women in aviation.
Captain Claudia Walding joined Solomon Airlines in 2000 and made history in 2015 as the airline’s first female Airbus A320 Captain, paving the way for future generations of women pursuing careers in commercial aviation.
First Officer Lyndah Tito Owen joined Solomon Airlines in 2009 and has consistently broken new ground throughout her career. In 2017, she and Captain Patricia Avosa became Solomon Airlines’ first all-local female flight crew, operating together aboard a De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. In 2023, she became the airline’s first female Dash 8 Captain and now reaches another milestone as the first local female pilot to commence Airbus A320 line training.
Solomon Airlines Airbus A320 at the Honiara International Airport. Photo credit: SIBC.
Solomon Airlines Chief Executive Officer Matthew Findley said Lyndah’s achievement reflects the airline’s continued investment in developing local aviation professionals.
“Today marks another proud milestone for Solomon Airlines and the Solomon Islands. Captain Claudia Walding paved the way for women in aviation within our airline, and we are delighted to see First Officer Lyndah Tito Owen become the first local female pilot to commence Airbus A320 line training. Her achievement reflects dedication, professionalism and perseverance, and we hope it inspires more young Solomon Islanders, particularly young women, to pursue careers in aviation.”
First Officer Lyndah Tito Owen said it was an honour to reach another milestone in her aviation career.
“I am incredibly proud to take this next step in my career and grateful for the support and encouragement I have received throughout my journey. Flying alongside Captain Claudia Walding makes this milestone even more special, and I hope it inspires more young Solomon Islanders to believe that a career in aviation is within reach.”
As Solomon Airlines continues connecting Solomon Islands with destinations across the Pacific, the airline remains committed to investing in local talent and building a diverse, highly skilled aviation workforce for the future.
[end]
Solomon Airlines statement
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MOU to Reinstate SICA Women’s Desk
Women representatives from four Christian denominations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work together towards reinstating the Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) Women’s Desk, approximately 12 years after it was formally abolished.
The signing was a major outcome of the inaugural Inter-denominational Christian Women’s Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology, held on 25 May 2026 in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The forum brought together representatives from the South Seas Evangelical Church [SSEC], Anglican Church of Melanesia, Roman Catholic Church and United Church.
Lady Mary Vunagi, wife of the late former governor-general and Anglican archbishop Sir David Vunagi, attended the forum as an adviser.
During the forum, participants shared information about the programmes their respective churches provide for women, families, children and young people.
These include positiveparenting and child-protection programmes, youth groups, prayer and support groups, counselling services, community outreach and visitation programmes, and activities promoting spiritual growth and biblical ways of living.
Some churches also conduct awareness programmes and family-week activities covering a range of family and gender-related topics.
Although the denominations offer different programmes, participants agreed that their work is based on the common Christian belief that every person is created in the image of God and should be treated with love, dignity and respect.
They said biblical teachings about partnership, mutual respect and following the example of Jesus Christ should form the foundation of efforts to promote gender equality and healthy relationships among women and men.
Participants also emphasised the importance of counselling, prayer and a sound understanding of the Word of God in building strong families and communities.
The forum recognised that community gatherings provide an important platform for people to discuss gender issues and develop grassroots responses.
Participants said these gatherings should bring women and men together while also providing separate spaces in which each group can speak openly and comfortably about sensitive issues.
They noted that cultural barriers often prevent women from discussing certain matters when men are present, particularly in rural communities.
The forum agreed that dedicated women’s and men’s discussion groups could help participants speak honestly about their experiences before coming together to identify shared solutions.
The educational disadvantages experienced by many women were also discussed.
Participants said women who have had limited access to education may not fully understand their rights or know how to seek assistance, respond to difficulties or become empowered to improve their circumstances.
They said churches have an important role in educating and empowering women while helping both women and men understand their responsibilities within families, churches and communities.
Participants also agreed that women and men have different responsibilities assigned by God, but these differences should never be used to downplay the dignity, contribution or value of women.
A sound understanding of the Word of God was identified as essential to building respectful partnerships between women and men.
Another major concern raised during the forum was the well-being of children and young people.
Participants described young people as the country’s future leaders and one of the largest groups within the population.
They called for churches to place greater emphasis on youth education, positive parenting and programmes supporting children from early childhood through their teenage years.
Participants said childhood and adolescence are critical periods during which people develop their values, behaviour and personalities.
Positive parenting, strong Christian teaching and cooperation between families, churches and communities were identified as essential to addressing child abuse, family breakdown and the growing number of young people who feel lost or disconnected.
The forum heard that raising a family is increasingly challenging and that issues affecting children and young people go beyond denominational boundaries.
Participants said Christian churches must work together to educate young people, reconnect vulnerable or disengaged youth with their communities and prepare the next generation for leadership.
The women agreed that reinstating the SICA Women’s Desk would provide a central platform for coordinating this work, strengthening cooperation between denominations and ensuring that women’s concerns are represented within SICA.
The SICA Women’s Desk was formally abolished approximately 12 years ago, following the departure of the last person who held the position.
Participants said the reinstatement of the position would restore an important platform for women from different churches to work together on issues affecting women, children, young people and families.
Following discussions at the forum, participants met with Lionel Dau, the General Secretary of SICA, who expressed support for the proposal.
A memorandum of understanding was subsequently developed and signed on 21 July 2026.
The MOU was signed by Lady Mary Vunagi, forum adviser; Florence Naesol, National Women’s Coordinator, South Seas Evangelical Church; Matilda Maneniaru, Chair Lady Catholic Women’s Council & Sarah Belende Manedetea, Women’s desk, Catholic Archdioceses of Honiara; Clara Ramofafia, Women’s Representative, United Church; and Sandra Rollands, President of the Mother's Union, Anglican Church of Melanesia.
The signing was formally witnessed by Julia Nho, the forum facilitator and host, who is a PhD researcher at the University of Notre Dame Australia.
The signing marked an important step towards reinstating the SICA Women’s Desk and strengthening cooperation among Christian women across Solomon Islands.
The renewed Women’s Desk is expected to help churches coordinate programmes for women, children, families and young people while promoting Christian responses to gender and social issues.
Further discussions and upcoming forums will focus on the next steps for establishing and filling the Women’s Desk position, including how it will operate and be
supported moving forward.
Moving forward, the intention is for local church women leaders, together with SICA, to take forward the process through agreed local structures.
The inaugural forum was initially designed and hosted by Julia Nho, PhD Researcher at University of Notre Dame, in partnership with Ms Sandra Rollands, President of the Anglican Church Mothers’ Union.
This partnership reflected the Anglican Church of Melanesia’s current role as chair of SICA for 2026 and 2027.
//end//
Source: Inter-denominational Christian Women’s Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology
Photo caption: Participants of the inaugural Inter-denominational Christian Women’s Leadership Forum on Gender Equality Theology. From left to right: Lady Mary Vunagi, forum adviser; Florence Naesol, South Seas Evangelical Church; Sarah Belende Manedetea and Matildas Maneniaru, Roman Catholic Church; in the centre, Julia Nho, forum facilitator and host; Clara Ramofafia, United Church; and Sandra Rollands, Anglican Church.
BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
North Malaita’s Besi Youth Association has sent two of its members to China for a look-and-learn seminar on agricultural practices.
The two Besi Youth members left for China yesterday with the aim to gain more knowledge and skills to help their association.
The trip was made possible through a bilateral partnership between the Chinese Embassy, the Besi Youth Association and ongoing support from the Malaita Youth Council.
Vice Chairman of the Besi Youth Association, Kelly Gilead, said the trip will be a great opportunity for their members and the association to learn new knowledge and skills for their operations.
He said the trip will provide firsthand information from experienced and skillful people with aim to strengthen agricultural and fisheries aquaculture in Pacific countries.
“Like the first seminar that we attended, this one is on agriculture and fisheries aquaculture. This seminar is similar to our association’s focus on agriculture.
“This is a great opportunity for us after establishing a partnership with the Chinese Embassy,” he said.
He said they will continue to send their association members to China in the future.
“This is the second group, and our third group will soon be going to China to learn more about Chinese agricultural practices,” he said.
The Besi Youth Association (BYA) was established in 2025 in Besi Village, located in the To’abaita area of North Malaita.
The youth-led group was formed to empower young people in rural areas through leadership development, education, and sustainable agriculture, such as local taro production.
Photo credit: Phillip Subu
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The Pacific Youth Talanoa Series is creating space for young people from across the region to better understand the systems that shape climate decisions and to contribute their perspectives ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31.
In these reflections, Sabina Moce (Fiji) and Douglas Willietien (Vanuatu) highlight why meaningful participation begins from the start of the decision-making process and why diverse community voices must be part of shaping climate solutions.
The Pacific Youth Talanoa Series is co-designed and co-led by the Pacific Youth Council and the UN in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu & Vanuatu in partnership with Pasifika Communities University and regional partners, strengthening Pacific youth engagement in regional and global climate discussions.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging stronger action to protect young people in Solomon Islands from tobacco products and industry marketing tactics designed to attract and addict them early, said a WHO press release issued to mark this year’s World No Tobacco Day.
The press release said WHO Solomon Islands Officer-in-Charge Dr Sakthivel Selvaraj calls for stronger measures to reduce the appeal of tobacco and nicotine products among young people.
He highlighted tighter controls on flavoured tobacco products, advertising, promotion and product designs that make smoking more attractive to youths.
He also calls for stronger tobacco control laws, tougher enforcement, increased community awareness and greater support for people trying to quit smoking.
“Together, let’s unmask the appeal, expose industry’s tactics, and protect the health and future of our children and communities. Remember, the appeal is manufactured, but the harm is real,” Dr Selvaraj said.
WHO Solomon Islands Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases, Dr Tsogzolmaa Bayandorj, also urges young people to not be misled by tobacco marketing.
She said products promoted as “tobacco-free” or “smooth” should not be regarded as safe, warning that nicotine is addictive in any form.
Dr Bayandorj encourages smokers who want to quit to seek help from health clinics and health centres, where proven cessation methods such as nicotine patches, nicotine gum and counselling are available.
“Don’t let tobacco marketing confuse you. ‘Tobacco-free’ doesn’t mean safe, ‘smooth’ doesn’t mean weak. Nicotine is addictive in any form, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you’re trying to quit, speak to your health clinic and health centres about safe and proven options,” she said.
The statement also quoted youth representative Haddasah Dowo, who described the fight against tobacco as a fight for freedom whilst urging young people to reject addiction.
“We are the generation that can unmask the appeal and expose the truth. Let us choose health over addiction. Let us choose awareness over deception. Let us choose life over tobacco,” Ms Dowo said.
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Sakses blong Markets for Change hem kam from olketa pipol!
Olketa representative blong Project Working Committee (PWC) an Project Management Committee (PMC) olketa continue fo leadim positive senis long olketa central maket long Auki, Buala, Gizo mo Honiara. Last week, olketa meet fo reviewim progress blong project, strongim partnership, an agree long olketa priority fo next sixfala month.
Stat long 2021, Australia hemi proud fo supportim UN Women Markets for Change (M4C) ...
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Honiara, Solomon Islands - Twenty-five women market vendors from Honiara are celebrating a significant milestone in their journey towards financial empowerment after successfully completing the Saver Plus Initiative—a matched savings programme implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with ANZ Bank.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Heritage Park Hotel, marked the culmination of a ten-month pilot programme that combined financial literacy with practical savings, equipping women market vendors with the knowledge, confidence, and financial tools to improve their livelihoods and strengthen their economic resilience.
Participants committed to saving SBD180 every month over ten months. Upon completing the programme, ANZ matched each participant's savings, enabling the women to purchase productive assets and essential household items they had identified through ANZ's MoneyMinded financial literacy training.
For many of the graduates, the programme has transformed not only their financial situation but also their mindset.
"Before joining the programme, I saved only when I had money left over. Through the MoneyMinded training, I learned how to budget, set financial goals, and save consistently. Completing the programme has given me confidence that I can plan for my family's future and achieve the goals I once thought were out of reach," shared one participant. Ms Betty Isu, market vendor, Honiara Municipal Market
The Saver Plus Initiative demonstrates the power of combining financial education with practical incentives to promote lasting behavioural change. Through regular saving, budgeting, and financial planning, participants have developed habits that will continue to benefit them well beyond the life of the programme.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the UNDP Solomon Islands Inclusive Growth Team leader, Mr Solomon Kalu, congratulated the graduates and reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to women's economic empowerment.
"Today's graduation is about much more than completing a savings programme. It is about empowering women with the confidence, knowledge, and opportunities to make informed financial decisions, strengthen their businesses, and invest in a more secure future. When women are economically empowered, families prosper, communities become more resilient, and nations grow stronger."
Betty Isu.
UNDP
Grace PIko.
UNDP
Martha Ossie.
UNDP
Through the Markets for Change initiative, UNDP continues to work alongside governments, local authorities, development partners, and the private sector to create more inclusive economic opportunities for women, particularly those working in the informal economy.
The programme also reflects the strength of UNDP's long-standing partnership with ANZ Bank, whose MoneyMinded financial literacy programme has helped thousands of people across the Pacific build financial capability. By introducing the Saver Plus Initiative in Solomon Islands, the partnership has taken an important step beyond financial education by enabling participants to translate their new knowledge into meaningful financial assets.
Another graduate described the discipline required throughout the programme.
"Saving SBD180 every month was not always easy, especially when there were many family expenses. But the training encouraged me to stay committed, and knowing that our savings would be matched motivated me to keep going. Today, I am proud that I can purchase the items I planned for without taking on debt." Ms Grace Piko, market vendor, Honiara Municipal Market
The initiative highlights the important role of partnerships in advancing financial inclusion and achieving sustainable development outcomes. Working together, UNDP, ANZ Bank, and the Honiara City Council Division of Women have demonstrated how collaborative approaches can create tangible benefits for women market vendors and their families.
Beyond individual success stories, the programme contributes to broader national development priorities by strengthening women's participation in the economy, promoting financial inclusion, and supporting more resilient households and communities.
For another participant, the impact of the programme extends beyond her own family.
"This programme has taught me that financial independence starts with small, consistent steps. I will continue saving even after today, and I want to share what I have learned with other women in my community so they can also improve their lives and build a better future for their families." Ms Martha Ossie, market vendor, Honiara Municipal Market
As the graduates begin the next chapter of their financial journey, the Saver Plus Initiative stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when women are equipped with the right knowledge, supported by strong partnerships, and given access to practical financial opportunities.
UNDP remains committed to working with government, the private sector, and development partners to expand financial inclusion, strengthen women's economic empowerment, and ensure that no one is left behind.
About Markets for Change (M4C)
The Markets for Change (M4C) initiative supports women market vendors across Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Samoa by promoting inclusive market governance, strengthening women's leadership, improving livelihoods, and expanding access to economic opportunities. In Solomon Islands, M4C works closely with national and local partners to create safer, more inclusive, and economically empowering market environments that enable women to be empowered and contribute meaningfully to their family, and communities.
For more information, please contact: Ms Jilgina Kimisi, M4C Project Associate, UNDP Solomon Islands I jilgina.kimisi@undp.org and Ms Vilisi Veibataki, Markets for Change Project Manager, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | vilisi.veibataki@undp.org | +679 3227701
The conversation continues and Pacific youth are ready to shape what comes next.
Today, participants in the Pacific Youth Talanoa Series are building the skills, knowledge and confidence to influence climate action, from understanding how decisions are made to helping shape the Pacific Youth Communiqué ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31.
Opening Talanoa 2 of the series, Martin Wandera, Director of the International Labour Organization for the Pacific Island Countries, challenged participants to move from being consulted to shaping outcomes, encouraging them to carry what they learn into the spaces where climate decisions are made.
We were honoured to welcome Sally Higgins, COP31 Presidency Youth Climate Champion, who reminded participants that while global forums help set ambition, real climate action happens every day in Pacific communities. She encouraged young people to keep leading, innovating and sharing their lived experiences, while creating more opportunities for other youth voices to be heard.
Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, also joined the Talanoa, providing participants with an overview of the UNFCCC and COP processes, the role of Pre-COP, and how Pacific youth can align their advocacy with Fiji's Pre-COP priorities. His session encouraged participants to see themselves not just as observers, but as contributors to a stronger and more unified Pacific voice on the global stage.
Throughout the day, participants put these ideas into practice, exploring how climate decisions are made, strengthening their advocacy skills and refining the Pacific Youth Communiqué, a youth-led document that will help carry Pacific priorities into the lead-up to Pre-COP31 and COP31.
The Pacific Youth Talanoa Series is co-designed and co-led by the UN in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu & Vanuatu and the Pacific Youth Council in partnership with Pasifika Communities University and other regional organisations.
PRIME MINISTER WALE COMMITS SUPPORT TO SUSTAIN DREAMCAST YOUTH HUB
PRIME Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting the Dreamcast Theatre Solomon Islands, recognising its critical role as a leading youth-driven arts and cultural hub in Honiara.
During a meeting today with the organisation’s executive, the Prime Minister was briefed on the immediate challenges facing the hub, particularly the rising cost of commercial rent that threatens its long-term sustainability.
Dreamcast Theatre Co-founder and Creative Director, Mr Neil Nuia, outlined the organisation’s 20-year journey, highlighting its growth into a respected institution that empowers young Solomon Islanders through theatre, filmmaking, photography and music.
Mr Nuia said the hub currently accommodates between 60 to 80 young people daily and supports a wider network of more than 300 youths nationwide.
“We use creative arts for social advocacy, capacity building and leadership development,” he said.
He noted that despite ongoing financial pressures, the organisation remains committed to continuing its work and impact.
In response, Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the importance of the hub as a vital space for youth development and creative expression.
“The theatre has always been there. It’s the only creative cultural space we have for our young people, and the Government recognises its importance,” the Prime Minister said.
He confirmed that the Government will engage relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA), to work with stakeholders toward addressing the hub’s sustainability challenges. - PRESS RELEASE
[ENDS]
总理瓦尔承诺支持维持梦幻青年中心
总理马修·瓦尔(Hon. Matthew Wale)重申了政府对支持梦幻剧院所罗门群岛(Dreamcast Theatre Solomon Islands)的承诺,认可其作为霍尼亚拉(Honiara)领先的青年驱动艺术和文化中心的重要角色。
在今天与该组织高管的会议上,总理了解了该中心面临的紧迫挑战,特别是不断上涨的商业租金威胁其长期可持续性。
梦幻剧院的联合创始人兼创意总监尼尔·努亚(Mr Neil Nuia)概述了该组织20年的发展历程,强调其成长为一个尊重的机构,通过戏剧、电影制作、摄影和音乐赋能年轻的所罗门群岛人。
努亚表示,该中心目前每天接纳60到80名年轻人,并支持全国超过300名青年的更广泛网络。
“我们利用创意艺术进行社会倡导、能力建设和领导力发展,”他说。
他指出,尽管面临持续的财务压力,该组织仍然致力于继续其工作和影响。
对此,总理瓦尔承认该中心作为青年发展和创意表达的重要空间。
“剧院一直存在。它是我们年轻人唯一的创意文化空间,政府认识到其重要性,”总理说。
他确认,政府将与相关部门合作,包括文化和旅游部(MCT)以及妇女、青年、儿童和家庭事务部(MWYCFA),与利益相关者共同努力解决该中心的可持续性挑战。 - 新闻稿
[完]
By Georgina Maka’a Despite progress in recent years, women in Solomon Islands continue to face significant barriers in reaching senior...
The post Four Barriers Holding Women Back From Leadership, Says PS Pitaqae appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY NED GAGAHE
The Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI) has renewed its call for greater representation of women in senior executive and decision-making positions, saying stronger partnerships and institutional support are needed to break barriers to leadership.
The call was made during WELSI’s Women Connect Breakfast and Panel Discussion Networking Event at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara on Thursday, July 9.
The event brought together women leaders, government officials, private sector representatives, development partners and educational institutions to discuss challenges facing women in leadership and to identify practical pathways to increase women’s participation in executive roles.
Panel discussions focused on the progress and gaps in women’s representation, barriers to advancement into higher decision-making positions, leadership development and executive capacity building, mentorship and sponsorship, institutional support, and opportunities to strengthen women’s leadership pathways.
WELSI President Pamela Naesol Alamu in a statement said the discussions provided participants with a clearer understanding of the opportunities and strategies needed to support women aspiring to leadership positions.
“The dialogue created stronger partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders and renewed engagement and strengthened networks among WELSI members and women leaders across sectors,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) Aaron Pitaqae said promoting women into higher decision-making roles is not only a matter of fairness but also a strategic necessity for national development.
“While challenges remain, the opportunities for enriched leadership and societal progress are immense. By addressing structural barriers, challenging biases, and fostering supportive environments, we can unlock the full potential of women leaders and drive meaningful change across all sectors.
“As members of our society, women deserve respect and recognition. This is not just about recognising women because they are part of us; it is about making meaningful change because it will benefit everyone. Government and organisations must now accept that women’s participation can have a positive impact,” Mr Pitaqae said.
Participants highlighted several barriers that continue to limit women’s progression into leadership positions.
These include deeply rooted patriarchal attitudes and traditional gender roles that view leadership as a male responsibility, limited access to professional networks and mentoring opportunities, gender bias in recruitment and promotion processes, and the challenge of balancing leadership responsibilities with family and community obligations.
Despite these challenges, the forum acknowledged that positive progress has been made through national policies and programmes that aim to support women to advance into leadership roles.
WELSI said it will continue to facilitate dialogue and collaboration with key stakeholders to promote inclusive leadership and create more opportunities for women to progress into senior executive and decision-making positions across the country.
Photo credit: WELSI
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WELSI hosts leadership forum to strengthen women’s pathways into senior executive and decision-making roles in Solomon Islands. Sunday 12 July, Honiara – The Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI) remains committed to increase dialogue on challenges affecting women’s progression into senior executive roles. As part of these efforts, WELSI successfully hosted a Women Connect [...]
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China remains committed to working with all partners in the Solomon Islands on the basis of mutual respect, openness, and shared responsibility. By supporting youth development, promoting the rule of law, and encouraging traditional values of integrity, responsibility, and peaceful coexistence, we can help build safer and more resilient communities.
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✨Gender equality and inclusion✨
RAPPP supports the RSIPF to strengthen gender equality and inclusive policing. By promoting participation, leadership and safe workplaces, this work helps build an organisation that reflects the communities it serves. Inclusive policing strengthens trust, effectiveness and long-term capability.
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