Thirty Women Graduates to Strengthen Samoa’s Border Security

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 26 June 2026 – Women from Samoa’s national security agencies have come together this week to enhance their skills in tackling border security and transnational crime.

Thirty emerging women leaders from Samoa’s Customs, Immigration, Police, Corrections, and Biosecurity agencies graduated from the Pacific Women’s Professional Development Program (PWPDP).

The PWPDP is an initiative led by the Australian Border Force and delivered in partnership with RMIT University.

Inspector Michelle Bond from the Australian Defence Force highlighted the importance of leadership in the security sector.

She emphasized that leadership is a choice, not just a rank or title.

“Leadership is what we decide to do every day in how we think, act, and serve others,” she said.

It aims to boost leadership skills among women in the Pacific region, helping them prepare for operational and security challenges.

The 30 Border Security graduates with their certificates.

By investing in women leaders, the program is shaping the future of Samoa’s national security.

Participants learned how to work together more effectively to prevent illegal activities such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, human trafficking, and the smuggling of illegal goods.

Their leadership will help create a more coordinated approach to counter these threats, protecting Samoa and the wider Pacific region.

Michelle pointed out that national security challenges are becoming more complex.

“They require leaders who are flexible and willing to step up when it matters most.”

Inspector Michelle Bond from the Australian Defence Force.

She encouraged the graduates to return to their workplaces with confidence and to lead by example, building trust and respect with their colleagues.

She also urged them to create opportunities for women who will follow in their footsteps.

“Choose to build partnerships based on trust and respect, and choose to open doors for others,” Michelle said.

Michelle praised RMIT University and its staff for their dedication in facilitating the program behind the scenes.

Their support has played a key role in preparing these women to take on leadership roles in national security.