Twenty-five women from Savai‘i took centre stage on Saturday evening, proudly showcasing garments they created after 50 days of intensive sewing and garment-making training under the government-led Stitch With Love Programme. 

Their runway debut also marked the official launch of Su‘i Alofa – Made in Samoa, a national brand celebrating Samoan craftsmanship and village-based skills.

The event at Le Lagoto Resort brought together families, village representatives, church leaders, and senior government officials, including Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio‘o, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Fei Mingxing, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Samoa. 

Representatives from UNICEF and UNDP, as well as officials from the Ministries of Health, Police, and Justice and Courts Administration, also attended—reflecting strong whole-of-community and whole-of-government support for women’s economic empowerment in Savai‘i.

The runway showcased a vibrant collection of puletasi, children’s wear, and evening gowns, highlighting the trainees’ technical skill, creativity, and readiness to transform training into livelihoods and village-based production.

Held as part of Samoa’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the programme included sessions on awareness of gender-based violence, reinforcing the connection between economic empowerment, dignity, faith, and safer homes and communities.

Mulipola said that when the Stitch With Love programme opened applications, more than 1,300 Samoans applied for just 50 places. 

"That response sends a clear message that our people are ready to learn, ready to work, and ready to contribute meaningfully to Samoa’s development,” she said.

“Each participant carries a responsibility to master a skill and return that skill to their villages, churches, families, and youth groups. This is Government investment working the Samoan way: skills shared, value multiplied, and benefits rooted in community.”

The evening also honoured the legacy of the late Afa Ah Loo, recognising his vision for Pacific fashion and commitment to ensuring creative opportunities reach rural and outer-island communities.