The Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) village representatives from across Samoa gathered at the Tooa Salamasina Hall, MWCSD, for their Annual Meeting Forum this week. This AGM served as a pivotal platform to validate community support for humanitarian and development works by the SVSG.
The agenda included the evolving roles and responsibilities of the SVSG Village Representatives as the first respondents to cases of child protection and gender-based violence while advocating for community well-being.
Highlighting the importance of their roles, representatives were reminded to lead with kindness and dedication in their service to ensure the safety and well-being of families, churches, and villages. The meeting emphasized the need for continuous support for SVSG’s initiatives, fostering respect and ownership among the village representative network.
“This meeting provided a valuable opportunity for village representatives to come together, share experiences, and provide feedback on the impactful work being done in our communities,” said Vagana Ale Komiti, Village Representative for Toamua.
During the AGM, new members were invited to join the network of SVSG Village Representatives. The invitation attracted an influx of new members, highlighting the expanding scope of SVSG’s work within local communities, which is also a reflection of the growing recognition among village leaders of the importance of working together to address issues within their communities.
“This significant increase in membership reaffirms the community’s commitment to tackling community challenges and supporting SVSG’s mission,” said Siliniu, emphasizing the collective effort needed to foster safer and more supportive environments.
“The roles of the village representatives are vital to SVSG and its mission. It is work from the heart. The village and church leaders registered as SVSG Village Representatives do this humanitarian and development work voluntarily. As SVSG continues to address violence and community safety concerns, we depend on the dedication and diligence of our village representatives to report incidents promptly and responsibly,” said Siliniu Lina Chang, SVSG President.
“Thank you to all of SVSG’s Village Representatives for your service to the Samoan community with humility. O la outou tautua alofa lea mo si o tatou atunuu pele o Samoa,” Siliniu Lina Chang added.
