BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
VALAPATA Community in Vella La Vella, Western Province, has marked a significant milestone with the official opening of its new youth hub over the weekend.
The event brought together representatives from donor partner The Pacific Community, implementing partner Sirubai Voko Tribe Association, World Wildlife Fund, Western Provincial Government, Western Youth Association, as well as community chiefs, women, youths and children, all gathering to witness the achievement.
Speaking at the ceremony, Valapata youth representative, Jesse Lelokana acknowledged SPC for providing funding that enabled the community to construct the youth hub.
He also commended the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association for leading the groundwork from start to finish.
Lelokana said the journey was not easy, but through cooperation the community was able to overcome challenges.
“This building is for all of us. Churches, the provincial government and donor partners who are looking for a venue to host events are welcome to use this facility.
“I’m happy that our youths will now have a home to undergo workshops or life-skills training that will help them grow,” he said.
Member of Assembly for Ward 8, Kadiba Alu also acknowledged the Pacific People Advancing Change (PPAC) programme under SPC for providing the financial support towards the project.
He said he is so privileged to witness the opening of the Valapata Youth Hub, adding that the partnership between the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association and SPC demonstrates the importance of initiative when government support falls short.
Alu said such initiatives can drive positive development within communities.
“This building will provide a space for training, social interaction and will help strengthen unity among youths within Ward 8,” he said.
One of the founders of the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association, Henry Kaniki, said the association was pleased to support the development.
He said the idea for the youth hub began 14 months ago, with the association taking the lead in consultations and sourcing funding for the project.
Kaniki said the official opening of the youth hub marks a major achievement not only for Valapata Community but also for youths in surrounding communities, providing a new space for empowerment, learning and community engagement.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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