A day to celebrate all girls, amplify their voices and their rights, and support them in the communities was marked at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia on Wednesday.

The International Girl Child Day was hosted by the Samoa International Cricket Association in partnership with the Australian government. International Day of the Girl is a key global moment on which to celebrate girls everywhere, amplifying their voices, actions and leadership.

This year’s theme was “The girl I am, the change I lead.”

Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific, Litara Ieremia-Allan, delivered a powerful keynote address, reminding Samoan girls from various schools that they had the power to bring about changes and become leaders.

National Women’s Cricket Captain Regina Lili’I had a similar message about leading with confidence.

The event took the commitment to empowering young girls a step further by providing an interactive platform for them to engage and showcase their leadership abilities. Instead of merely being observers, school girls were active participants, working in groups to present on various topics connected

Australian Deputy High Commissioner Claire McGeechan said such events, such as these, reminded people of the incredible potential, strength and leadership of girls everywhere and the shared responsibility to ensure that every girl is empowered to learn, lead and thrive.

“The theme for this year is recognising that every girl carries within her the power to inspire change. Change in your family, change in your school and change in your community,” she said.

“I hope you enjoy and thrive in today’s workshop – this is an amazing opportunity to express who you are, share your dreams and build your confidence amongst your peers.

“As you engage in today’s discussions and activities, remember that empowering girls is not just about equality – it is about unlocking your potential to create something special to inspire change.”