ToakLink Community Association

The ToakLink Community Association is dedicated to uplifting Toak Village through innovative and collaborative initiatives, aiming to significantly enhance the lives of all community members. Their vision is to empower Toak Village project by project, fostering a vibrant and sustainable future. This involves a proactive empowerment model focused on community-led change and self-reliance. Guiding Principles: 1. Collaboration and Unity 2. Innovation 3. Community Resilience and Preparedness 4. Support and Solidarity 5. Digital Transformation 6. Decentralization and Enhanced Community Governance Strategic Programs: Maritime Mobility: Aims to improve inter-island transportation with a ca... read more The ToakLink Community Association is dedicated to uplifting Toak Village through innovative and collaborative initiatives, aiming to significantly enhance the lives of all community members. Their vision is to empower Toak Village project by project, fostering a vibrant and sustainable future. This involves a proactive empowerment model focused on community-led change and self-reliance. Guiding Principles: 1. Collaboration and Unity 2. Innovation 3. Community Resilience and Preparedness 4. Support and Solidarity 5. Digital Transformation 6. Decentralization and Enhanced Community Governance Strategic Programs: Maritime Mobility: Aims to improve inter-island transportation with a cargo and passenger vessel, focusing on Ambrym Island and Vanuatu province to boost economic prosperity. A feasibility study was completed in October 2023. This is foundational for other economic programs. Retail Resonance: Plans to establish robust retail channels, including a shop in Port Vila and a farmers market, to connect local producers with urban markets. This follows the Maritime Mobility initiative. Agricultural & Aquatic Association: Focuses on empowering local farmers and fishermen by blending traditional practices with aquatic resources to enhance food security and community strength. It respects existing local knowledge and cultural heritage. Digital Marketplace: Envisions an e-commerce platform to expand market access for local products and stimulate economic growth, overcoming geographical limitations. Foundational Initiatives: Disaster Preparedness and Relief: Includes the Toak Village Disaster Relief Committee to safeguard against natural calamities. The community has shown resilience and solidarity, such as supporting Pamal Village after Cyclone Lola and efficiently distributing aid received from the NDMO. Community Infrastructure and Governance: Toak Unity Hall: A collaborative project with Australian Direct Aid and neighboring villages (Sahuot, Mbarias, Maat) to provide a vital community space. New Area Council Office: Initiated by Toak Village to align with the Vanuatu government's decentralization mission, aiming to become the main government administration center in South East Ambrym. Progress and Partnerships: Recent achievements include the launch of the community website (November 2023), completion of the Maritime Mobility feasibility study (October 2023), effective disaster response post-Cyclone Lola, youth engagement in community projects like church revitalization and the Toak Gospel Kids Club, and ongoing construction of the Unity Hall and Area Council Office. ToakLink values collaborations with partners like Australian Direct Aid, the Vanuatu Government, NDMO, VANGO, local villages, and community members. Call to Action: The Association invites support in various forms, including donations, to fuel its programs, such as acquiring the vessel, stocking the retail shop, developing the Digital Marketplace, and bolstering disaster preparedness and infrastructure projects. The overarching goal is a future forged by community, collaboration, and commitment, leading to a thriving, resilient, and self-determined Toak Village.