A group of survivors of gender-based violence have started a campaign called Positive Movement, which is focused on eliminating violence against women and girls.

The group known as Sisters of Hope come under the umbrella of Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) and is led by International Children’s Peace Prize 2018 finalist, Leilua Lino.

The campaign will aim to encourage people to support victims of physical and sexual abuse, and encourage them to speak out and say no to violence. 

According to the SVSG president, Siliniu Lina Chang, it is the belief of the SVSG that change starts in the minds and voices of a community.

Siliniu said that a community should give hope to those who are without support. 

“A community should not leave each other behind, and the Positive Movement is the platform to hear your voices for change,” she said.

SVSG is taking the movement to villages, churches, schools and the local community at large.  

“We will spread the Positive Movement further to our Pacific region and beyond to the outside world through the social media.

“Join us in the Positive Movement, where together, we will say no to violence, past troubles, past hurts, and scream out ‘Yes’ to lives of positivity. 

“Be the change that you want someone else to see. Lift your voice and join us in the Positive Movement because the Sisters of Hope believe that if we can, you can too,” said SVSG.

 The group has advocated for the rights of the most vulnerable in the local Samoan community for over 14 years, and have become the voice for the voiceless, in the hope that vulnerable communities would be heard.   

“In situations where brave and courageous girls had once lost their voices, the message is now loud and clear – if we can, you can too. 

“Have you overcome something in life that used to keep you silent? Have you made some positive changes in your life that would give hope to others? Have you got a message that you want to share? If this is you, then join us.”