MOTHER’S DAY 2024 – From SVSG’s Ambassador for Children’s Rights

“As the newly sworn-in Ambassador for Children’s Rights for the Samoa Victim Support Group, I am humbled to be the voice of the abused and vulnerable children, under the shelter care of the Organization, to wish all the mothers here in New Zealand, in Samoa, and where ever you are tuning in from: A blessed and safer Mother’s Day today.

“This week, I was sworn in as the inaugural Ambassador for Children’s Rights. A ceremony that was validated when I visited the children of hope, cared for at the Campus of Hope shelter facility.

“Some of these children are girls who, unfortunately, have become young mothers themselves; not by choice, but because of the sexual abuse they have suffered within their own homes. I salute you as brave heroes on this Mother’s Day.

“Similarly, I’ve seen women volunteering at the Campus of Hope as carers and as families to the children; loving and caring for the children as their own. Thank you for your motherly love.

“I’ve bought beautiful handicrafts from nofotane women survivors of violence, who have been socially and economically empowered by the SVSG Nofotane Program.

“Then there are grandparents, aunties, and uncles who have taken up the responsibility as caretaker mothers for us and our children. Fa’afetai le alolofa.

“How about the male figures who have taken up mother-figure roles in their families as single parents or as siblings who have lost their mothers? You are nurturing our future leaders and as such, I applaud you for your courage.

“On this special day, let us celebrate the love, appreciation, and gratitude we have for our mothers and mother figures.

“For our beloved mothers who have been called to rest, we honor your memory. Your legacies continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

“Wishing all our mothers a blessed Mother’s Day celebration today and every day.”

Toleafoa Father Leatuao Larry Tupai-Lavea
SVSG’s Ambassador for Children’s Rights