Sista Somap Togeta

Sista Somap Togeta: A Decade of Kiwanis Threads Across the Pacific by Caroline Salisbury is a deeply personal and inspiring account of a grassroots humanitarian initiative connecting Aotearoa New Zealand and Vanuatu.

Prompted by the devastation of Cyclone Pam in 2015, retired educator Caroline Salisbury began by collecting quilts to send to families in need. This simple act sparked the creation of Kiwanis Threads Across the Pacific – a volunteer-led project supplying sewing machines, fabrics, and training to women in Vanuatu. Over ten years, the initiative has grown to include regular workshops, the distribution of over 200 sewing machines, and strong partnerships with Ni-Vanuatu communities and the international Kiwanis network.

Blending memoir, travelogue, and social history, the book shares the stories of the women empowered by the project, the Kiwi volunteers who gave their time and skills, and the challenges and triumphs along the way. It’s a testament to practical compassion, cultural connection, and the belief that helping mothers helps whole communities.

Written by the project founder, Caroline Salisbury, this new book tells the story in a personal, heart-warming style and includes 3 maps & 100 photos

Proceeds from the book support the ongoing Threads project to support women and children in Vanuatu with sewing machines, sewing supplies, and skills to increase independence, and confidence.