FROM PERPIGNAN FRANCE WITH LOVE

​Despite the string of tragic incidents and what not during the past couple of weeks in the heart of Polynesia that we call home, an email received by Samoa Victim Support Group today from Perpignan France, reaffirmed our belief that there is still hope in humanity.
 
The email was from Tevita Mailau, a rugby union player who plays for Stade Montois, (a French rugby union team), and Tonga internationally.  The email reads: “Talofa guys.  Attached are photos from the fiafia night of performances, auction winners, programs etc and our Afrikan friends who donated cupcakes and lamningtons that spelt “SVSG”.”
 
Here is a non-governmental organization in the Pacific, yet, we have some of rugby greats in the likes of Jerome Kaino, Sekope Kepu, Fereti Tuilagi, Joe Tekori, Isaia Toeava, Filo Paulo to name a few, who came together to support a fundraising event organized by Tevita & Rose Mailau for SVSG.
 
Back in April this year, Tevita wrote to SVSG relaying his family’s wish to lend a helping hand for the people of Samoa through SVSG.  “My name is Tevita, currently living in Perpignan, France. My wife Rose who runs and organises events here, has been interested in your organisation for some time now. She is wanting to run a fundraising event here in France to donate to SVSG within a few months time.”  
 
And the fundraising was a success, raising EUR2000 now sent over to SVSG.  Some of the rugby greats playing professional in the northern hemisphere donated rugby jerseys which were auctioned off during the fundraising event.  From the photos shared by Tevita & Rose Mailau, it was truly a family event, where we can see our diverse island culture through entertainment being showcased, all in the name of humanity.  
 
Because out of love for the children survivors of gender based violence at the Campus of Hope, and all the beneficiaries of SVSG’s work here in Samoa, the Pacific family in Perpignan France came together as one, illustrating humanity at its best.
 
The Chair of the SVSG Board, Mrs. Georgina Lui acknowledged the importance of this event to the work of SVSG. “Thank you so much Tevita & Rose Mailau for showing us that you care.  You have gathered families and friends from the Pacific and together, you reminded us that, we are one family; with love from Perpignan France.”