BY JOY OFASIA
Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel celebrated the Permanent Secretary’s Women’s Leadership Award as a beacon of hope for women in Solomon Islands’ health sector.
Women in Leadership Breakfast held yesterday at the Heritage Park Hotel, the event drew inspiration from local trailblazers breaking barriers in a field where women form the backbone of care.
Schloeffel praised the award for highlighting that leadership in health must mirror the diverse talents of everyday caregivers. “Across Solomon Islands and across the world, women are the backbone, the backbone of health delivery and they make up 70% of the global health workforce, yet hold only 25% of senior leadership roles,” he said, highlighting the stark gap.
He shared how women leaders drive real change. “Women leaders prioritise maternal and child health care, champion preventative care and ensure resources reach those most in need,” Schloeffel noted, painting a picture of thriving communities where mothers and children get the support they deserve.
Schloeffel urged everyone to empower women, calling it “not just the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do” for inclusive, sustainable health systems.
Meanwhile, he hailed the awards as more than honors—they prove investing in local women unlocks potential. “Let us continue working together government, partners, and communities to ensure that these pathways are not just open but are embedded for the future,” he urged, inspiring a room full of dreams and determination.
