SVSG Nofotane Group Celebrates International Women’s Day

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 5 March 2026: In a lively celebration honouring strength, resilience, and transformation, the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) Nofotane Programme commemorated International Women’s Day with an event showcasing women’s entrepreneurial achievements and leadership within the community.

SVSG Chairperson Maposua Tanya Toailoa emphasized the importance of progress and renewed commitments.

“Today’s exhibition shows what happens when opportunity meets resilience,” she said.

Women displayed their talents in sewing, tailoring, handicrafts, weaving, Elei printing, and food processing—activities that honour their culture while creating new business opportunities.

SVSG Chair Maposua Toailoa also acknowledged the hardships women have faced—displacement, vulnerability, and violence.

“We have walked alongside women through tough times, and today we celebrate their perseverance,” she affirmed.

SVSG Chair Maposua Tanya Toailoa, British High Commissioner His Excellency Gareth Roar & Reverend Niu Onesemo with Nofotane members showing off their Certificates of Achievement as part of the celebration of the International Womens Day.

The event, held at the Vodafone headquarters also featured congratulations from the British High Commissioner His Excellency Gareth Hoar that sponsored the event.

Gareth Hoar praised the collective efforts of SVSG, donors, and partners by empowering women as a true commitment

“Strengthening their resilience and independence helps protect communities and build a stronger Samoa.”

Gareth Hoar also proposed expanding the programme with new business startup projects and social initiatives to support economic growth among women.

“Supporting household income boosts confidence and security,” he added.

Ofa Denny, President of the Nofotane Programme, shared that the Nofotane Programme is very meaningful to her as it has helped her acquire new skills, support her family and grow her business.

“Many women experience violence and need financial support. We hold workshops in villages to share our experiences and teach income-generating skills. I joined the programme in 2016 and started my Elei business in 1991 to help my household. Now at age 61, I serve in SVSG, tutoring and assisting in villages while continuing my business.”

International Women’s Day is a call to action. It’s about giving women access to tools for leadership, confronting inequality, and building lasting partnerships. To honour the women’s efforts, certificates of recognition were awarded during the event.

The celebration highlighted the courage, independence, and entrepreneurial spirit of Samoa’s women. It showed how resilience and community support can transform lives and strengthen the nation.