Solomon Womens Leadership

A positive step is being taken in the Solomon Islands to encourage young women to be more active within the credit union movement and within their local community.

Funded by the Australian Office of Women, CUFA ran 3-day workshops across 4 different islands of the Solomon Islands, to inspire and assist women to develop leadership skills.

A working group was established for the Young Women’s Leadership Program, comprising women from the credit union movement in the Solomon Islands and Australia.

The main purpose of the program is to empower 400 young women (aged 18 – 26 yrs) and mentors (27 yrs +) and to encourage greater female participation within the community, particularly with regards to financial literacy and the credit union movement.

Three key topics addressed are Financial Literacy, Health and Hygiene and Confidence and Self Esteem. The young women are now teamed up with an older, respected woman within the community, to guide the young leaders in developing new skills and encouraging greater community involvement.

CUFA Education Project Officer Claudine Chicheportiche, facilitated the Solomon Islands Young Women’s Leadership Program, from 15 April – 7 May 2008, travelling to Honiara, Sasamunga, Buala and Auki workshop locations, reaching more than 400 women.