07.05.2025 - Aunty Helen: A legacy of empowerment in the Solomon Islands
When the Solomon Islands Institute of Sport (SINIS) was established in 2021, it marked a transformative shift in the country’s approach to high-performance sport. At the heart of that transformation was a diverse team of professionals, but one volunteer stood out for her unique ability to connect, mentor, and inspire: Helen, affectionately known by many as ‘Aunty Helen’. Helen began her journey with Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) in 2021 in a blended assignment – a mix of e-Volunteering and volunteering in-country.
According to Moses Jnr Aunama, former Performance Manager for combat and weight sports at SINIS, Helen’s impact rippled far beyond the technical expertise that she provided. While managing over 200 athletes and a team of 13 staff, Moses witnessed first-hand the influence Helen had, particularly through her mentorship of Coach Developers. These local professionals were critical in supporting coaches across seven sports – many of whom were navigating their first steps into professional coaching through scholarship programmes.
Helen’s role was to equip these Coach Developers with the confidence, tools, and strategies to thrive. Her influence was instrumental in the country’s unprecedented success at the Pacific Games, where many teams, coached by local talent, secured medals for the first time in history and helped some athletes achieve new personal records. Her support helped elevate the performance of the athletes and embedded a lasting legacy within the coaching community.
VSA volunteer Helen Egan (right) is welcomed by staff at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport
One standout example is Wendy Hale, a female Coach Developer who initially doubted her abilities. Through Helen’s mentorship, Wendy found her voice,and her place and she remains a key part of SINIS today – a living testament to the power of guidance and mentorship.
But Helen’s impact wasn’t limited to performance outcomes. She played a pivotal role in empowering women and para-athletes to break societal barriers. Moses notes how female staff gravitated to her, not just as a mentor, but as a confidante. Simple acts – like sharing lunch – became spaces for empowerment and those moments together nurtured leadership, confidence, and boldness in women who once hesitated to lead.
Looking forward, Moses hopes the legacy of volunteers like Helen continues through partnerships with organisations like Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA). “Her professionalism, kind heart, and humility are rare,” he reflects. “Her passion for seeing others grow can’t be repaid.”
To many in the Solomon Islands sporting community, Helen is not just a volunteer – she is a catalyst for change, a mentor, and a beloved Aunty whose impact will be felt for generations to come.