Building respect and protecting futures: How young people are transforming healthy relationships in Malaita

"Real love is not about control, it is about respect, trust and kindness." 

These simple but powerful words are changing lives across communities in Malaita Province, where young people are becoming champions for safer relationships and stronger families.

For generations, many young people grew up believing that jealousy, control and even violence were signs of love. Today, those beliefs are being challenged.

Through the Youth Healthy Relationship (YHR) Training under the Gender Equality Project (GEP II) - supported by the Australian Government and implemented by World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI), young people, parents, women and men are gaining the knowledge and confidence to build relationships based on respect, equality and consent.

Across communities including Talakali and Gwaibaleo, the training is equipping participants with practical skills on healthy relationships, child protection, online safety, positive communication and violence prevention. More importantly, it is inspiring local people to become advocates for change within their own families and communities.

For Willie Ramson, a youth representative from Talakali Community, the training transformed his understanding of what healthy relationships truly look like.

"The biggest lesson I learned is that love is shown through respect, trust and good communication, not by controlling someone. This training has changed the way I think about relationships."

Since completing the training, Willie has become an active role model among young people in his community, encouraging them to solve conflicts peacefully, respect one another and reject harmful behaviours that can lead to violence.

"If we want safer communities, it starts with us as young people making better choices and teaching others what we have learned."

In neighbouring Gwaibaleo Community, another youth representative Steven Ibo says the training opened his eyes to the challenges many young people face today, particularly the dangers of unhealthy relationships and unsafe online behaviour.

"I now understand the warning signs of unhealthy relationships and how important consent, respect and communication are."

Steven believes knowledge creates change, and he has already begun sharing these lessons with his friends and fellow youth.

"When young people understand these lessons, they can help stop violence before it starts and create a better future for everyone."

The Youth Healthy Relationship (YHR) Training is not only empowering young people, it is also helping parents and caregivers create safer, more supportive environments where children can grow, learn and thrive.

For parent representative Cornelius Sade, the training transformed the way he communicates with his children and strengthened his understanding of positive parenting.

"Children need adults they can trust. This training reminded me that listening, protecting and guiding them are responsibilities we all share."

Since taking part in the training, Cornelius has been applying the lessons at home and encouraging other parents to do the same. He says the difference has been remarkable.

"When we communicate with our children in a respectful and caring way, they respond positively. They are more willing to listen, share their concerns and talk openly because they know they are being heard and supported."

Cornelius believes that healthy relationships begin within the family, where open communication, trust and respect help children feel safe, valued and confident. He says that positive relationships between parents and children help create safe and nurturing homes where children can grow, thrive and reach their full potential.

Women's representative Dorcus Sade says the training also inspired women to become stronger advocates for healthy relationships, child protection and respect within their families and communities.

"I learned that everyone has the right to feel safe and respected. Healthy relationships begin with equality, kindness and understanding."

She now shares these messages with women and young girls, encouraging them to recognise unhealthy behaviours, understand their rights and seek support when needed.

"When women, men and young people work together, we can build communities where children grow up feeling protected, respected and valued."

The Youth Healthy Relationship (YHR) Training is leaving a lasting legacy by empowering local people to become advocates for respectful relationships, child protection and positive change. As participants put their learning into practice and share it with others, they are strengthening families, inspiring young people and creating communities where respect and understanding flourish.

Through the Gender Equality Project II (GEP II), this collective effort is helping ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, valued and supported to realise their full potential.