Strengthening community bonds for positive change

Le Va’s Atu-Mai community engagement leads, Taeao Napo and Charles Lavea, have been meeting individually with these leaders, each passionate about making a difference.

“Different communities need different strategies; there’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” said Taeao.

Charles added, “Meeting with like-minded leaders reassures us that we’re on the right path. It’s encouraging to see others with a heart for sexual violence prevention.”

He spoke of one mobiliser who shared how sexual violence is still prevalent and a reality but, as a community, we don’t shed light on it. Feedback like this reinforces the Atu-Mai team’s commitment to addressing these issues head on.

Atu-Mai aims to create a ripple effect of positive change by equipping community leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge.

The goal is to build a network of support where positive role models share their stories, important knowledge is passed on and open, honest communication is encouraged.

This fosters a culture of care, respect, and responsibility, aligning perfectly with the meaning of Atu-Mai’s name: love given, love received.

Taeao Napo