Homes of Hope Fiji has raised concerns about the culture of silence in communities, lack of communication between parents and children, poverty and peer pressure, which it says are among the issues affecting young women and girls vulnerable to sexual abuse.
A representative of the organisation, Joshua, says Homes of Hope works with 16 communities where it provides awareness programmes and training on social issues, particularly sexual abuse and exploitation.
He says through their community engagement, they have identified a culture of silence surrounding these issues.
Joshua says another challenge is that some communities may be aware of cases but do not necessarily prioritise addressing them.
He says poverty, peer pressure, neglect and disconnection between children and their families are also among the factors that can increase young people's vulnerability.
Joshua believes communication between parents and children is important, particularly at a time when young people face various social pressures and distractions.
He says a lack of communication and trust can make it difficult for children to share the problems they are experiencing.
The organisation is also concerned about human trafficking and believes more awareness and education are needed.
Joshua says human trafficking may not receive the same level of attention as other social issues, including drugs and sexual abuse, but it remains an important concern.
Meanwhile, funding continues to be one of the major challenges affecting the organisation's ability to expand its programmes.
Joshua says many of the initiatives they want to introduce on campus and in communities require significant financial resources.
Homes of Hope has assisted more than 1,000 girls since its establishment and currently has 16 girls on campus.
The organisation provides a one-year programme for young women aged 18 to 26, focusing on practical skills such as farming, sewing, baking and food processing, alongside financial literacy and sexual exploitation awareness.
Joshua says while some former participants have returned to school or university and others have started applying their skills in their communities, some continue to face difficulties after leaving the programme.
He says the organisation continues to provide support to these young women even after they return to their communities.
Homes of Hope receives support from Tearfund New Zealand, government stakeholders and other partner organisations.
Joshua says stronger partnerships between government, civil society organisations and communities are essential to addressing these issues and ensuring vulnerable women and girls receive the support they need.
