Sanarosa’s tragic ordeal inspires campaign to end the violence

Staff Reporters/

Apia, Samoa – 03 October 2024 – The tragic life story of Sanarosa, a young victim of abuse whose life and dreams were shattered and lost to the violent ordeal she suffered, will be remembered in a special ceremony in her village tomorrow.

The ceremony at her graveside at Fasitoouta village will not only commemorate her life but to also send a powerful message to the youth of Samoa to cherish life, live fully, and stop the violence.

Sanarosa’s life was tragically cut short at 18 years old by horrific circumstances at the hands of her biological father now serving a 20-year prison sentence that highlight the devastating impact of abuse and the critical importance of justice.

Her memory lives beyond the grave as the Sanarosa “Let It End With Me” Campaign aims at fostering a culture of care, respect, and understanding among our young people – one that rejects violence in all its forms.

Through the campaign, the Samoa Victim Support Group remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for a culture of non-violence among youth in Samoa.

SVSG feels that the recent incidents of violence among college students in Samoa highlighted the urgent need for transformational change.

The campaign commenced this morning at Maluafou College, involving the entire school community, including teachers and Vice Principal Reverend Iakopo Faasalaina.

Sanarosa’s dying message was shared through a video recording, serving as an inspiration drawn from her heartbreaking story. SVSG has made a promise to keep Sanarosa’s message alive by advocating for children and youth.

The afternoon session at St. Joseph’s College met with an equally positive reception. Sister Jacinta Fidow of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) and the SVSG Psychosocial Team Leader delivered the Sanarosa “Let It End With Me” message.

The students, teachers, and Brothers showed significant engagement, paying close attention to the message being shared.

SVSG strategically selected these two colleges as advocates for Sanarosa’s message, recognizing that students, teachers, principals, and parents are navigating the healing process to address mental health issues exacerbated by recent violent incidents.

Sanarosa’s legacy resonated deeply with many, prompting reflections on the importance of compassion and support within the community. Students were invited to take ownership of the Sanarosa “Let It End With Me” Campaign to honour her memory by fostering a culture of care, respect, and understanding among their peers—one that unequivocally rejects violence in all forms.

“I urge you to recognize the preciousness of life and to choose paths that uplift rather than harm,” the SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang, who led the campaign today, reminded the students.

“You are fortunate to have families who embrace you when you return home from school—families that protect you fiercely. The children at the Campus of Hope remind us of the harsh realities of violence. Please, do not let Sanarosa’s death be in vain.”

“Thank you to the thousands of students we have visited today at the two Colleges for committing to continue Sanarosa’s legacy. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and inspire a generation to cherish life and support one another,” said Siliniu Lina Chang.

Sanarosa’s Closure Ceremony is scheduled tomorrow, Friday, October 4, 2024, at 9:30 AM, at Fasitoo-uta for the community to pay tribute to a young hero where SVSG village representatives will line the road to Sanarosa’s resting place.