New Zealand MP for Manukau East, Jenny Salesa will hold an open meeting with women in Nuku’alofa at noon on Thursday, 14 April.

The aim is for potential female candidates to have the chance to speak with the MP who will share the roles that comes with such leadership positions, but the meeting is open for any woman in Tongatapu.

Potential women candidates will include those running for the town and district officer positions this year and other women who intent to run for the next Tonga General Election.

Salesa will share her experience and encourage attendees on the role women play in politics and decision-making positions, and attendees can ask questions and seek her advice.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs with the Women’s Division, the coordinator of this meeting said the session was a continuance of the International Women’s Day candidacy workshop to further empower women, particularly those who will be running for local government this year.

Salesa is in Tonga as a part of New Zealand's relief efforts to Vava’u after it was affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston last month.

The meeting will be held at the UN Joint Office at the Royco Building, and the coordinating officer is 'Aulola Ake.