Ngossi Ward Youth Committee Strengthens Leadership Through Governance Training

The newly established Ngossi Ward Youth Committee (NWYC) has commenced a three-day induction and governance training programme designed to strengthen youth leadership and encourage greater community participation across the ward.

The program is being delivered in partnership with the Solomon Islands National Youth Congress (SINYC) and the Honiara Youth Council (HYC), with support from the Honiara City Council Youth Division.

Elected in August 2026, the NWYC comprises youth leaders from communities and youth groups throughout Ngossi Ward, including Wind Valley, White River, Independence Valley, Banana Valley, Kanaba and Ngossi Valley.

Chairperson for Solomon Islands National Youth Congress, Harry James Olikwailafa and Honiara Youth Council is facilitating the training at Councillor Rex Konofilia’s Leaf Hut meeting space in White River.

The induction and governance sessions are equipping committee members with guidance to support the effective establishment and operation of the ward-level youth body.

As the first ward in Honiara to establish its own youth committee, Ngossi Ward is taking an important step towards creating a formal platform through which young people can contribute to community initiatives and local development.

Establishing a ward youth committee gives young people an organised and representative voice in decisions that affect their lives and communities.

It can help identify local priorities, coordinate youth-led activities, develop leadership skills and connect young people with training, education, employment and community service opportunities.

By engaging youth in planning and implementation, the committee can also support stronger social cohesion, promote responsible citizenship and ensure community development initiatives reflect the needs and ideas of younger residents.

Support from government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners will be important to sustain the NWYC and encourage similar structures in other wards.

Assistance with governance systems, leadership training, mentoring, programme planning and resources can help new committees become accountable, inclusive and effective.

Long-term partnerships can also enable ward youth committees to turn community priorities into practical initiatives that benefit both young people and the wider community.

The NWYC acknowledged SINYC, HYC, the Honiara City Council Youth Division and Councillor Konofilia for supporting the committee’s establishment and helping to build its leadership and governance capacity.

The establishment of the NWYC reflects the Solomon Islands National Youth Policy 2017–2030, which recognises young people as key stakeholders in national development and seeks to create a platform for them to become “good citizens and constructive nation builders.”

By giving young people, a structured voice and opportunities to lead, ward youth committees can help turn the policy’s vision for youth empowerment and productive engagement into practical action at the community level.