Five young women have been honoured for their exceptional performances at Tonga’s 2025 Inter-College Athletics Competition, highlighting the growing prominence of female athletes in the nation.
The Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC), in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Sports Committee, presented special medals to the top female athletes across five divisions. The awards recognised not only athletic excellence but also the empowerment of young women through sport.
Among the standout performers was Manusiu Vea of Liahona High School, who secured seven gold medals in events including sprints, jumps, and relays. Her teammate, ‘Ofa Tuifua, earned four golds and two silvers in the senior girls’ category. In the open women’s division, Niulini Moli also from Liahona, claimed four golds and a silver.
Other awardees included Langakali Peni of Queen Salote College, who took home four golds and a silver in the junior girls’ events, and Iva Halapua from Tonga Side School, who achieved three golds, a silver, and a bronze in the midget girls’ category.
WCCC Director ‘Ofa Ki Levuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki praised the athletes, stating, “Your actions show other girls what they too can dream of and strive to become.” She emphasised that their determination offers hope in a world where many girls face challenges such as violence and bullying.
The WCCC continues to advocate for gender equality and the elimination of violence against women and children in Tonga, supporting initiatives that empower young women through various avenues, including sports.
