SOLOMON ISLANDS: Anilafa Receives Women's Award

Date: 
Friday, July 9, 2010
Source: 
Solomon Star
Countries: 
Asia
Oceania
Solomon Is.
PeaceWomen Consolidated Themes: 
Participation
Reconstruction and Peacebuilding

A WOMAN who has given her life to teaching the country's children with disabilities has had her work recognised yesterday.

Catherine Anilafa, headmistress of the Red Cross Handicapped Centre in Honiara, was the recipient of the United States sponsored 2010 International Women of Courage Award.

She became the fourth local woman to be given the award since its introduction four years ago.

United Sates ambassador to Solomon Islands, Teddy Taylor was here to present the award to Ms Anilafa at a ceremony held at Rove Police Club.

Ambassador Taylor congratulated Ms Anilafa on her achievement.

He said Ms Anilafa was a true pioneer in championing the rights of disabled children in Solomon Islands.

Ms Anilafa became the headmistress of the Handicapped Centre at the age of 21 and continues today.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women, Youth and Children, Ethel Sigimanu, said Ms Anilafa truly deserved the award.

“Through her role as the principal of the Red Cross Handicapped Centre, Catherine has taught us a lot of things, to recognise the needs of children, to be dedicated and committed and to show the true meaning of leadership,” Mrs Sigimanu said.

She thanked the United States for giving the women of Solomon Islands the recognition, the honour and dignity they deserved.

Receiving her award, Ms Anilafa said she was humbled and honoured to have been chosen for the award.

“There are other great women in this country out there who also deserve to receive this award,” she said.

Ms Anilafa thanked the United States for the award and for their support towards the Red Cross Handicapped Centre.

She also thanked Red Cross for giving children with disabilities the opportunity to receive and education.

The International Woman of Courage Award was established by the United States Secretary of State.

It is to pay tribute to women around the world who courageously champion human and equal rights in their communities, and whose personal sacrifice is an inspiration to all those who seek peaceful change.