A virtual Pacific Islands Leadership Training School for Polynesian Women held by the US-based International Republican Institute was joined by aspiring women leaders from Tonga.

Sixteen women from government, civil society organizations and community groups from Tonga, Samoa and Tuvalu were engaged on a variety of topics to understand why democracy needs women, from July 14-16.

Broadcasted simultaneously in the three Pacific Islands, the training was joined virtually by the International Republican Institute (IRI) staff from Fiji, Solomon Islands and the United States.

The women learned skill-building in public speaking and advocacy development while hearing from successful female candidates and male champions who were working hard to support their advancement in government and communities.

Amie Woeber, IRI’s Resident Program Director for the Pacific Islands Regional Program said even though women have the right to vote and contest office across the Pacific, too many countries still have no elected women leaders in national government.

"We believe democracy needs women at the table, and democracy needs women in government making decisions. We are excited to support these Women who are working to make that happen."

Tongan women

Youth advocate ‘Ana Malia Falemaka said this training is an excellent exposure for young people to learn about leadership early on.

"With the knowledge we've gained from the sessions conducted as well as the inputs of the amazing women alongside us, I believe that we are super empowered with so much knowledge in which we can go back into our individual communities and empower others."

In addition, we are the future generation of Tonga and so it is important that we are provided such opportunities in which we can learn, share our ideas, grow and hence influence others, she said.

At the same time, Lesieli Afu Takelo a participant from Ha’apai who aims to run for Foa's District Officer said, this training gave her the confidence to really know her value and be a strong voice to empowering other women. 

“This is one of the best trainings I’ve ever attended virtually and to learn from other women from Tuvalu and Samoa has been quite an eye opener to me."

Organizers said a notable participant was Hon Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa joined from Samoa and shared her journey.

Meanwhile, this event was part of series of the Leadership Training School (LTS) across the region. Graduating participants become part of IRI’s LTS Alumnae network that continues to connect like- minded women leaders who are privy to additional trainings and funding opportunities.

Tonga-Country facilitators were Tapuaki Mei Langi consultancy and Talitha Project.

IRI is US-based nonprofit, nonpartisan, nongovernment organization dedicated to advancing freedom and democracy worldwide.

It has worked to develop democratic institutions and ideals, carrying out a variety of international programs to promote freedom, self-government and the rule of law worldwide and with funding from USAID it has been working to strengthen democratic governance across 12 Pacific Island nations since 2019.