The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey is proud to be part of the Community Solutions Program, one of the most extensive networks of non‑profits dedicated to fostering global collaboration. Now in its second year of participation, the Partnership continues to welcome emerging professionals who bring fresh perspectives to community health initiatives.
This year, Raywin Olokwao Aluta joined the Partnership as a Community Solutions Program (CSP), fellow, traveling from the Solomon Islands for a three‑month practicum.
Raywin’s journey has been anything but straightforward. After leaving school in the 11th grade, she faced years of emotional challenges. Yet she refused to let those setbacks define her. Through five years of volunteer service with the Youth Division of the Honiara City Council, she rebuilt her confidence and discovered her passion for community work. Her dedication led her to earn a Diploma in Youth Development and Community Studies, as well as a Level 4 Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Mental Health and Addiction) in 2020.
Reflecting on her early career, Raywin shared:
“I spent five years in my first formal job as a Program Coordinator for Tokspot, a project supporting the social and emotional well‑being of young people. Through these experiences, I discovered my passion for working with women facing challenges like mine—school dropouts, early motherhood, and unemployment.”
Her commitment eventually brought her to the Community Solutions Program (CSP), funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and implemented by IREX. Out of 12,600 applicants worldwide, only 56 fellows were selected for this year’s cohort—a testament to her perseverance and leadership.
Raywin explained:
“The CSP matched me with the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey, and I have been fortunate to work with an incredible team whose mentorship and support have strengthened my skills and professional growth.”
During her fellowship, Raywin contributed to the Teen Outreach Program (TOP) and Teen Speak, initiatives designed to promote positive youth development and help teens avoid risky behaviors. She collaborated with PMCH trainers to deliver school‑based sessions on healthy relationships, communication, and problem‑solving. By the end of her practicum, she had become a certified trainer herself.
“Participating in TOP sessions and earning certification has strengthened my skills in ways that will directly enhance my work back home.”
Adjusting to life in the United States was not without challenges. Coming from the Solomon Islands, Raywin experienced cultural shock—particularly around time management. On the islands, “island time” is a widely accepted norm, where schedules are flexible and meetings often start later than planned.
“To overcome this, I prepare several hours ahead of time for work, training sessions, and meetings. This habit has helped me stay on track and make the most of my fellowship experience.”
Her adaptability paid off. By the end of her placement, Raywin was leading workshops, training students, and preparing initiatives she hopes to bring back to her community. One highlight was delivering a financial literacy workshop at the Learning Community Charter School in Jersey City.
“Stepping out of my comfort zone to train American students was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had. Sharing knowledge in a new environment was both meaningful and practical.”
Looking ahead, Raywin plans to apply her learning to financial literacy and wellness programs for young women and mothers in the Solomon Islands.
When asked to summarize her fellowship in one word, she chose “Amazing.” She encourages future fellows to embrace discomfort, communicate openly, and immerse themselves fully in the experience.
“I would like to thank the staff at the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey for their tremendous support and warm smiles. Even a simple ‘hi’ or ‘how are you?’ gave me confidence and made me feel truly welcomed.”