Punanga Turuturu Itivaine (PTI), the women’s support centre, has strengthened its partnership with the Ambassador of France with both parties optimistic about advancing shared goals of community resilience and support for women in the Cook Islands.

Laurence Beau, Ambassador of France to the Cook Islands, committed to assisting PTI with D.A.S.H (Dignity, Aid, Safety and Hygiene) care packs for women.

The meeting presented a valuable opportunity for PTI president Eileen Story to share recent developments within the organisation including the newly executive board, staff, and a rebranding initiative that took place in September.

Story said “Ambassador Beau expressed her commitment to supporting Punanga Turuturu Itivaine and empowering women, highlighting also the vital role that technology can play in advancing progress.”

“We were thrilled to share our journey and look forward to a partnership that strengthens PTI’s impact.”

Story said Ambassador Beau is a huge fan of the PTI gender based work story especially being a mother of two boys.

“She is aware of the need for advocacy and awareness based projects aimed at our youth to help break generational cycles.”

Sharon Kareroa, PTI’s new project manager to combat gender based violence has 15 years’ experience in law enforcement.

Kareroa detailed the projects scheduled for rollout in the upcoming year funded by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC).

“Our focus is on implementing actionable programs that will directly benefit women facing violence,” she said.

Julia Evans, PTI’s centre coordinator said the importance of building strong alliances with diplomatic partners like Ambassador Beau “will create meaningful relationships and enhance our ability to support and empower women in our community.”

On Thursday’s Punanga Turuturu Itivaine wear black to signify solidarity and support and to raise awareness to eliminate violence against women and girls.

White Ribbon Day is observed on November 25 each year to mark the beginning of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” a global campaign that runs until December 10, International Human Rights Day. The White Ribbon Campaign (WRC) is a global movement of men and boys working to end male violence against women and girls.