More than 200 local church leaders from across the Solomon Islands Mission (SIM) were equipped for mission at the SIM Leadership Empowerment Training, held from April 7 to 11, 2024. The event, a collaboration between 10,000 Toes and ADRA Austria, exceeded the initial expectation of 70 participants.
Held at a local church in New Georgia, Solomon Islands, the training featured sessions led by Pastor Adrian Raethel, South Pacific Division Adventist Church Management System (ACMS) project manager, George Kwong, Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) health coordinator, Fraser Alekevu, TPUM CFO, and Mary-Clare Ravula, 10,000 Toes ambassador. The comprehensive program covered topics such as leadership development, financial literacy, health management, and data entry.
A key feature of the four-day program was the food demonstrations by 10,000 Toes Kitchen representative Senimili Mataika and dietitian Latanya Wong, which particularly engaged many male participants, breaking conventional norms in the region. The training concluded with a health screening, showcasing the practical application of the newly acquired skills.
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
[Photo: Adventist Record]
Chester Kuma praised the initiative as “groundbreaking,” highlighting its “significant role in fostering empowerment and holistic well-being among the participants.”
Kwong was impressed by the participants’ commitment to attending the event despite logistical challenges, such as extensive boat travel and camping accommodations. He commended their “resilience and determination”.
As the event wrapped up, participants expressed their appreciation for the transformative experience, with one noting, “We came as individuals, but we leave as empowered leaders, ready to make a difference.”
The original article was published on the South Pacific Divison's news site, Adventist Record.