Congratulations to Nan Hauser on being named Woman of the Month!
Since 2007, the Cook Islands has proudly honored one exceptional woman each month with the inspiring title Woman of the Month.
We are thrilled to announce that our very own Nan Hauser has been awarded this prestigious title for January 2025! Nan was nominated by Queen Pa Ariki in recognition of her 3 decades of dedicated work on the Ocean. With 27 years of valuable data supporting her efforts, Nan has played an essential role in both local and global conservation initiatives, particularly in protecting the South Pacific Migratory Humpback Whales and other cetaceans.
The Woman of the Month award was first dreamed up in a cafe called Café Salsa. The first recipient was a woman named Mrs. Mereana Taikoko of Matavera. She was recognized for her work with people with disabilities. Mrs. Taikoko, as well as every recipient that has followed, was given a wooden plaque which upon each new winner is then passed along. Recipients are also honored with a showering of head eis, neck eis, speeches, sponsored gifts, and the kindest of words.
In 2015, the United Nations established the Sustainable Development Goals, with Goal Five focused on “achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.” This aligns perfectly with the independent initiative taken by the Cook Islands to recognize and honor the vital contributions of women. Woman of the Month celebrates the significant impact women have on the economy, households, and the wider community. The award shines a spotlight on women who demonstrate courage, kindness, resilience, leadership, and who inspire future generations of young women and girls.
Once again, congratulations to Nan for this well-deserved recognition!
