BY KREINER TUKALI
Delcy Raygan, from Malaita and Makira provinces, is one of the participants at the 2026 Women’s Delivery Conference in Melbourne, Australia. She attends as a board member representing the Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA).
When she first received the invitation, Delcy said she had to think carefully. “At first I had to think twice and consider school commitments, but when they told me it’s a one-week program, I decided to embrace it and take the opportunity,” she said. She recognized the value of attending an international conference as a young woman.
“I feel privileged and blessed to attend this conference. I have learned many great things here and will take them back home with me,” Delcy added. She said the conference covered many important topics, helping her think differently, especially on sexual and reproductive health.
The main purpose of the conference is to empower women and focus on gender equality and the rights of girls, women, and gender-diverse people. Delcy said the conference is especially important for young women in the Pacific. “Our culture sometimes puts women in a position where gender equality is not prioritized. We think women are only for house chores, but this conference advocates for young girls and women in the Pacific to understand their rights and attend such events,” she said.
Delcy Raygan is presently enrolled in the Solomon Island National University’s (SINU) Tourism Program. Through her experience, Delcy hopes to inspire other young women in the Solomon Islands to embrace opportunities and make their voices heard.
Delcy believes women can take leadership roles in their communities and countries. One discussion that stood out to her was about sexual and reproductive health and rights. “It’s not just about healthcare access but also about freedom from violence and forced pregnancy,” she said.
“With the knowledge I learned at the conference, as a youth and a young woman, it’s important for me to share the discussions with my colleagues so we can advocate for women’s rights in our communities,” Delcy said.
She encourages young women to speak up and take action. “To the young girls and women: if you have something positive to share that can help other young women, come out of your comfort zones and advocate for women’s rights because we need your voice,” she said.
