Three young women were among the 50 who graduated this week from Don Bosco Technical Centre at Alafua with scholarships that covered their Term One tuition, thanks to a partnership between Brown Girl Woke and the Commonwealth.

Claire Seumanu from Vaiusu is studying sewing. She said she was proud of what she had learned so far and grateful for the support.

“I feel so proud that I have learnt so much from this programme and the scholarship, through the advice and examples set by Doris and the staff. I am planning to run my own sewing business in the future. Special thanks to Brown Girl Woke for helping us with this scholarship—it is such an honour,” Claire said.

She also encouraged other young women to make the most of opportunities when they come. “It’s not always easy, but it’s important to work hard for your dreams,” she added.

Anastasha Gaoa from Vaivase Uta is taking the plumbing course. She shared how shocked and excited she was to hear she had received a scholarship.

 “The first day they told us, I was shocked. I asked myself if it was worth going or not. But now I am so proud and grateful. Tuition is expensive but thank God for this blessing. My prayers were answered, and so were my parents, especially my prayer warrior, my Grandma Ana in Sataua Savai’i,” she said.

Anastasha said she has learned a lot in just three months, not only about plumbing but also about sharing ideas and respecting others.

“If you want to become a plumber, try hard and don’t listen to what other people say. Do what you want to do so you can one day work for the Samoa Water Authority or other companies. Use the opportunity and treasure it with all your heart.”

Michelle Masoe from Lalovaea is studying hospitality. She hopes to find work in the industry so she can help support her family. She said she was surprised but happy when she heard her name was on the scholarship list.

“I was so happy and calm in my mind. This help from Brown Girl Woke has helped me so much,” she said.

“I have learnt so much knowledge from this programme. My prayer for Brown Girl Woke is to never stop doing this. It has helped us so much and I believe it can help other girls in the future,” she said.

The event’s theme was “What She Builds Means to Us.” Doris Tulifau of Brown Girl Woke said the event was not just a graduation, but a declaration,” she said. 

“A declaration that girls in Samoa belong in every room, every trade and every future that was closed off to them for a long time.”

Not until 2021, girls were officially allowed to study trades like plumbing, welding, or electrical work in Samoa’s vocational schools. The “She Builds” program was created to break that barrier and to ensure gender equality moves from words to real action.

The scholarships meant 50 families didn’t have to choose between paying bills and sending their daughters to school to learn practical skills.

The program also taught leadership, human rights, and financial literacy. Doris explained that this is to help young women understand their worth, learn to lead with others, and manage their businesses or income.

Through their partnership with Don Bosco, Brown Girl Woke provided the emotional, mental, and social preparation, while Don Bosco delivered hands-on training.

According to Doris, after completing their training, these graduates will also have the chance to work with Brown Girl Woke, using their sewing skills and showcasing what they have learned so far.

“Don’t listen to the noise. Just do your work. Let today be part of something much bigger,” she said.