The newly appointed executive board of the national women’s counselling centre is committed to strengthening relationships with key agencies to improve support for victims of gender-based violence in the country.

The Punanga Tauturu Incorporated (PTI) is pleased to announce its newly appointed executive board members, a dedicated team of women committed to improving the support and resources available for those affected by gender-based violence.

With a strong focus on collaboration, the board is keen to strengthen relationships with government agencies, community organisations and stakeholders.

The new board comprises of: patron – Justice of the Peace Georgina Williams, president – Eileen Story, vice president – Leilani Sadaraka, treasurer – Anna Koteka, secretary – Louisa Purea, and executive members Lani Manuela, Karlene Taokia, Jane Tanner and Terina Teiri-Karaiti.

The newly-elected president, Story said: “I’m looking forward to strengthening PTI’s relationship with the relevant agencies so that we can work together to help our community when it comes to gender-based violence.”

Punanga Tauturu is fortunate to have received funding from the Pacific Community (SPC) to roll out 12 gender-based violence projects over the next two and a half years.

Story said she was super excited to join PTI, to be working with the new board, new office staff and funding to push out these important projects.

“The vision is to have a safe, supported and informed community,” she said. “And the great thing is over 60 women have signed on as members in 2024.”

“Our members each have their individual skills and expertise – they are our strength that will help PTI achieve our vision.”

Incorporated in 1994, the counselling centre is committed to human rights, education and legal literacy aimed at creating an informed society to enable the community to access justice.