Monday 22 October, Honiara - The Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI) was officially launched on Friday 18th October 2024 in Honiara creating a sustainable platform for advancing women in leadership at the same time addressing identified training and support gaps.
WELSI is an initiative that was birthed through a strategic collaboration between three partner organisations, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the Solomon Islands Women in Business Association (SIWIBA) and the Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) bearing witness to the rise of a movement that will impact generations to come.
WELSI is a member-driven organisation and the classes of membership includes Associate Member, Full Member and Honorary Member.
It is governed by an Interim Board consisting of President Pamela Naesol Alamu, Vice President Rachel Rahii, Secretary Florence Rhibbie Auma, Treasurer Joyce Lelau, and Board Members include Vaela Devesi, Dorothy Wickham and Natalina Hong.
Delivering the keynote address during the launch, WELSI President Ms Alamu, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ISIA, acknowledged everyone that have supported the establishment of WELSI as champions of change, as advocates of progress, and as individuals who believe in the limitless potential of women in executive roles across every sector in Solomon Islands.
“Too often, women have been underrepresented at the decision-making table, their voices unheard, and their contributions undervalued.
“As we launch the Women in Executive Leadership initiative, we are taking a decisive step toward rewriting that narrative. This initiative is not just about promoting women into leadership roles; it is about unlocking the full potential of our society and our country. When women lead, when their voices and perspectives are included, everyone benefits—our businesses thrive, our communities become stronger, and our nation prospers,” she said.
“The Women in Executive Leadership initiative is our collective promise to build a better tomorrow, a tomorrow where the leadership of women is fully embraced, celebrated, and respected. We are setting the foundation for a future that is brighter, more inclusive, and more just,” Ms Alamu added.
SICCI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) James Dolarii said “SICCI is pleased to be part of building this initiative contributing to women capacity development and empowerment. Women leadership is needed and is vital to driving development and sustainability in Solomon Islands. This initiative will support and empower women in leadership roles and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and confidence.
Rachel Rahii, SIWIBA Chief Executive Officer said that SIWIBA is proud to be a key partner in launching the Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI), an initiative that reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering women to reach their full potential in leadership roles. Together with our partners, we are addressing the critical gaps in support and training for women in senior executive positions, fostering a future where women lead and contribute to a thriving Solomon Islands economy.
The objective of WELSI is
- To establish a professional body aimed at advancing gender development and social inclusion in terms of professional development of women in senior executive roles, with the goal of enabling their progression into CEO and board positions.
- To create a network and support system for professional women seeking to excel in executive leadership roles.
- To identify gaps and needs in the journey of women in business and executive leadership roles and address them through training, mentorship, coaching and sponsorship.
- To set up an organization that serves as the central hub for achieving the above objectives on behalf of the Partners. ISIA, SICCI and SIWBA are rooted in a shared commitment to empower women in senior executive roles, enabling their progression in CEO and Board positions.
-Joint Media Release – ISIA/SICCI/SIWIBA
ENDS///…WITH PHOTOS
