An interdenominational three-day life skills program has been conducted at Manakwai Local Church in Malu’u, North Malaita over the weekend.
The workshop was held from Saturday July 19 to Monday 21.
It was specifically designed for mothers from various church denominations in and around the Malu’u area.
The program is being facilitated by the Young Mothers for Jesus Solomon Mission Team from Fiji and is hosted by the mothers of Manakwai Local Church.
At a brief opening ceremony, Mrs. Selina Liosulia, a representative of the host group, welcomed the local participants and thanked them for supporting the initiative.
She described the program as a significant and historic moment for the community.
Mrs. Selina Liosulia encouraged the women, stating that women’s issues are universal and not limited by denominational boundaries.
She emphasized that this program marks the beginning of greater things to come.
Addressing the visiting team from Fiji, she warmly referred to Fiji as the Solomon Islands’ “big sister,” acknowledging the longstanding support and solidarity between the two nations. She noted that Fijians built the road from Auki to Malu’u, a symbolic and literal representation of their support. ‘
“Fiji has walked with us through joy and hardship, even in our darkest moments,” she said.
Expressing deep appreciation on behalf of the people, she said, “We are grateful, on behalf of the happy people of the Solomon Islands, the friendly people of Malaita Province, the reverend people of To’abaita, and the humble custodians of the land of Manakwai.”
She urged the participants to make the most of this unique opportunity and not let the facilitators return without seeing the impact of their work. “Let them leave knowing what they came to offer has taken root in our lives,” she said.
Miriama T. Wesele, Coordinator of the Young Mothers for Jesus team, explained that their group has been operating for six years.
She explained their mission is to support women of all ages, not just spiritually but also in their day-to-day lives, so they can become the best version of themselves at home and in their communities.
Miriama added that the training includes practical skills such as cooking, baking, sewing, cutting, decoration for church and social events, flower arrangements, hygiene, and activities for children.
She also revealed that their mission extends to reaching unreached communities. “We have plans to reach the heathen, we truly want to touch the untouched,” she stated.
After completing the program at Manakwai, the team plans to travel to the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal to continue their outreach.
By Lensley Kwaimani
In Malu’u
