05/09/2025
“Violence doesn’t just happen. It happens because of us — the way we think, the way we speak, the way we act, and the way we approach others. Change begins with us.”
This is how young couples from Vavau and Faleasiu defined violence during our 3-day refresher training this week.
This marks the final round of our Sexual & Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Fundamental Training for young couples (16–40 years). Vavau and Faleasiu were chosen as pilot communities for this new program, and after three rounds, we are proud to call it a success! 👏
In the first two rounds, participants identified key factors of violence, including financial stress and sexual health. To support this, SFHA invited the following partners to present on these areas:
💡 The Central Bank of Samoa shared insights on financial literacy. How to manage financial stress and simple ways for couples to manage their money.
💡 Salausa Dr. John Ah Ching (SGBV Consultant) spoke on sexual health in the early stages of marriage. He highlighted that it is important for men to understand each sea*ons of the women's life cycle to avoid misunderstanding that may cause unnecessary problems/violence.
💡 MWCSD presented on the national referral pathway for support services not only in village level but also nationally.
SFHA would like to say a big fa’afetai tele to CBS, MWCSD, and Dr. John Ah Ching for your valuable contributions, and to our participants for your full engagement. Congratulations to you all! 👏
This program is funded by the Pacific Women Lead with the support for our Niu Vaka DFAT & MFAT.
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