Apia, Samoa โ Samoa has embarked on an inspiring journey to empower its young people with the official establishment of the Samoa Youth Advisory Board on Wednesday, October 16th. This national committee, dedicated to amplifying the voices of young Samoans, marks a significant milestone in Samoa’s commitment to youth development and engagement, with its formation recently approved by the Cabinet.
On Wednesday evening, the fifteen newly appointed board members and 4 Observers, chosen through an Expression of Interest (EOI) facilitated by the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development, convened for their inaugural meeting. The EOI process highlighted each applicant’s unique commitment to youth development and their diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives, which they now bring to the board. The event was attended by the Honorable Minister for M.W.C.S.D., Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o, and the Ministryโs Chief Executive Officer, Loau Donina Va’a. The atmosphere was one of excitement and inspiration as the board members launched this pivotal initiative.
In her address, Minister Mulipola emphasized the crucial role of the Youth Advisory Board in shaping the nationโs future, stating, “With 57 percent of our population being young people, it is imperative that their perspectives influence our national agenda.” She introduced the theme, โCast the Net Anew,โ which emerged during Youth Development Day on September 30 and serves as a guiding principle for the board’s mission to drive transformative change within Samoan communities.
The Youth Development Day outcomes statement identified key priority areas that will inform the national Youth Development Framework, modeled on the Pacific Youth Development Framework from the recent Pacific Youth Ministers Meeting, which Minister Mulipola attended. These priority areas will guide the board’s work, ensuring that initiatives align with the aspirations of Samoaโs youth. In December, the Youth Advisory Board will host its first national event, focusing on governance and leadership to endorse the Terms of Reference and draft a strategic plan. In 2025, the boardโs agenda will expand to include critical areas such as economic empowerment and education.
Minister Mulipola praised the ideas, courage, and aspirations of the youth, affirming that they are essential to building a resilient Samoa. She emphasized the importance of a well-defined Terms of Reference, which will guide the boardโs activities over the next twelve months, ensuring accountability, inclusivity, and effectiveness in all initiatives.
In a powerful call to action, Minister Mulipola reminded the board members of their responsibility: โRemember, having a voice comes with responsibility. Commit to your role, include others, lead with purpose, and truly understand the issues our youth face.โ She emphasized their roles as advocates and changemakers, entrusted with bringing the perspectives of all young Samoans to the heart of national discussions.
Minister Mulipola concluded her address with a message of encouragement and a heartfelt promise: โHave the courage to share your ideas. The Ministry is here, the doors are open, and we are committed to walking this journey with you. This is our promise to youโthat we will work side by side, ensuring that your voices shape our policies and that your dreams guide our nationโs growth.โ
As the Samoa Youth Advisory Board moves forward, the future of youth development in Samoa shines brightly. Driven by collaboration, passion, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow, this initiative signals a new era of empowerment and opportunity for young Samoans.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Tautua for their ongoing support and unwavering commitment to the youth of Samoa. Their dedication has been instrumental in fostering a nurturing environment that empowers and uplifts our young people, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to shape a brighter future for all.