Koror, Palau - The VOA program, since is inception in 2007, has undergone a significant transformation. Tessa Harman, a VOA educator and ONOC Ethics Commission member, explained the evolution: "Our messages have actually moved into a more athlete centered program in terms of delivering messages on athlete safeguarding and athlete well being." This shift reflects a broader understanding that athlete development extends far beyond physical health to encompass emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing.

The integration of safeguarding into the VOA experience created multiple touchpoints for athletes to access support and information. Through interactive stations covering "Play Safe," "Stay Healthy," "Play True," "Go Green," and "Be A Leader," athletes could engage with safeguarding concepts in an accessible, non-threatening environment. The "Play Safe" station specifically focused on helping athletes understand the difference between harassment and abuse while providing clear pathways for reporting concerns through QR codes linking to support services.

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On the ground in Palau, safeguarding officer Yannik Jimmy, a former athlete and currently FIFA safeguarding focal point from Vanuatu drew from his own experiences that the programme is essential for athletes.  "Safeguarding is very, very important…like, way back in my experience when I was playing, there was a lot of harassment ....supporters and people sharing abusive languages," reflected Jimmy.

Lupe Olovalo from Tonga, serving as a female development officer and safeguarding officer, brought a maternal perspective to her role. "Just to ensure that everyone participating in the program is safe,” she explained. Her approach emphasized prevention and gap identification: "Through safeguarding, we can be able to identify gaps and we could do something about it, we can look for solutions.”

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Athletes could report concerns through email, phone, QR codes, in-person contacts, or through the VOA spaces themselves. This multi-layered approach ensures that no athlete feels isolated or without recourse if they experience or witness concerning behavior.

The success of integrating safeguarding into the VOA experience lies in its recognition that athletes are not merely competitors but young leaders who deserve protection, respect, and empowerment.

This collaboration demonstrates that safeguarding and athlete advocacy are not separate concerns but interconnected elements of a holistic approach to sports development. This integration ensures that safeguarding becomes a natural part of the athletic experience rather than an external imposition, fostering a culture where athletes feel valued, protected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

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