BY JOY OFASIA
Sirubai Voko Tribe Association (SVTA) advisor and co-founder Jonathan Bukiri has been elected as the new advisor to the Board of Management. He is grateful for this role and said it continues the work he has done over the past years in leadership.
In an interview with SUNDAY ISLES, Mr Bukiri said his role as advisor involves providing strategic guidance to the SVTA Board in Western province. He also gives technical advice on leadership, good governance, accountability, and organizational development.
He said, “My top priority is to strengthen youth engagement through practical and meaningful participation.” He has been actively involved in forming the Valapata Youth Advocacy Association to empower young people. It focuses on leadership, skills development, and community service for rural youths.
Bukiri also helped six rural youths attend the National Exhibition Show in Honiara with Dreamcast for two weeks of learning and exposure. He said, “This experience showed the value of practical platforms that build confidence and skills for young people.” He strongly supports more practical and skills-based activities for rural youth communities.
He also welcomed the launch of the Western Province Youth and Children Centre as an important opportunity. Bukiri said he looks forward to working with the Western Provincial Government Youth and Children Division on inclusive youth programmes.
He has more than 30 years of experience in religious and community leadership and is committed to caring for nature. Community and cultural leadership remain central to his work, with growing participation of youth, women, and girls.
Bukiri said community work is very important to him and he will continue to support local people through guidance and service. He added that teamwork, respect, and inclusion are key values for strong communities in the future. Mr Bukiri encouraged young people to take part in activities that build skills, confidence, and responsibility.
He believes these efforts will help rural communities grow stronger and create more opportunities for the next generation. Mr Bukiri thanked his community for their support and said he is honoured to continue serving in leadership.
He said he will keep working with churches, youth groups, and provincial partners to build stronger systems of leadership, encourage education and training, and support long-term development in rural communities across the region for future generations and sustainability.
