Queen Camilla Opens Pre-School of Hope for Samoa's Vulnerable Children

Her Majesty Queen Camilla officially opened a new pre-school at Samoa’s “Campus of Hope” on Friday, 25 October 2024.

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The Queen Camilla Pre-School of Hope will provide a safe space for young residents to learn and grow.

The new pre-school was funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and supported by Pacific Assist, a New Zealand and Australia-based charity.

Local Latter-day Saints joined the army of volunteers who helped to prepare the pre-school and the grounds of the Campus of Hope for Queen Camilla’s visit and the opening ceremony.

The Campus of Hope is known throughout Samoa as a haven for vulnerable children who have suffered from violence and abuse. Set up by the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG), the Campus is home for up to 100 children at any one time.

In a service held just prior to the Queen’s arrival, Church leader, Elder Denny Fa’alogo, Area Seventy, addressed the children of Campus of Hope, staff, SVSG Board members and guests.

Elder Fa’alogo said, “Today, marks the beginning of a journey filled with learning, love and growth for the young souls who pass through these doors.”

He added, “This is not just a place of education but a sacred space where the children will feel the love of God, learn of His gospel and be nurtured in faith, hope and charity. We are grateful for all those who have sacrificed and brought this vision to life.”

Elder Fa’alogo asked for a blessing on the pre-school and the children who will learn there.

“As we gather to dedicate this pre-school, we recognize that it is a house of hope, where the children will develop both academically and spiritually, preparing for futures filled with promises and purpose,” Elder Fa’alogo said.

Makerita Fesolai, manager of Campus of Hope, said, “The pre-school is our dream. We have been praying for this day and it has come true because The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was ready and willing to help.”

“The pre-school will give these little ones a chance for a proper education and a good start for their future lives,” Fesolai said.

In 2023, Callum Blair, director of Pacific Assist, learned that two pre-schools in Auckland, New Zealand were closing down. He contacted Fesolai to ask if she would like the furniture.

Fesolai said yes.

When Blair delivered the furniture, he saw that there was no pre-school. He asked Fesolai where the pre-school would be and Fesolai told him, “We’ll worry about that later.”

Fesolai said, “I knew that the Lord would provide because He loves His children.”

Queen Camilla is accompanying King Charles at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings being held in Samoa from 21–26 October 2024.