In October, the idyllic island nation of Samoa welcomed leaders and delegates from 56 Commonwealth countries for the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). 

While the spotlight shone brightly on high-level diplomacy and international camaraderie, a cadre of dedicated civil servants worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event’s seamless execution. 

These unsung heroes, whose commitment and sacrifices made CHOGM 2024 a resounding success, deserve recognition for their extraordinary efforts.

For many civil servants, the weeks leading up to and during CHOGM were a test of endurance and dedication. Some went over two weeks without seeing their families, as they camped on-site to manage logistical operations and other critical tasks. 

Among them were drivers, liaison officers, firefighters, police officers, and healthcare providers, each playing a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s smooth flow.

Logistics teams bore the brunt of the preparations, often working late into the night to ensure every detail was accounted for. From coordinating transportation to managing accommodation and venue setups, their efforts were instrumental in creating an environment that welcomed and impressed global dignitaries.

Drivers and liaison officers were the lifeline of CHOGM’s operational machinery. Assigned to specific delegations, they began their days as early as 4:30 a.m., ensuring prompt pickups from hotels and seamless transfers to meeting venues. 

One liaison officer shared that her day often stretched until 11 p.m., with little time for rest before the cycle began anew.

“We had to hang around until all events concluded, then drop off our delegations to their hotels before heading home,” she recounted. “It was exhausting, but we knew we had a responsibility to uphold Samoa’s reputation for warmth and hospitality.”

Drivers, too, faced gruelling schedules. In addition to transporting delegations, they ensured their liaison officer counterparts returned home safely each night, demonstrating a level of camaraderie and professionalism that exemplified the Samoan spirit.

Firefighters and police officers were no exception to the demands of CHOGM. Many camped on-site, organising shifts to maintain safety and order throughout the event. One firefighter reflected on the personal challenges, sharing how he relied on video calls to stay connected with his family during his three-week absence.

“It was hard,” he admitted. “But we knew the importance of our work. We wanted our visitors to leave with positive stories about Samoa’s hospitality and warmth.”

Healthcare workers also rose to the occasion, some working 24-hour shifts to provide medical support at various venues. A nurse described the rigorous preparation that went into ensuring top-notch care for delegates and attendees.

“It was a historic meeting, and we wanted to deliver nothing but the best,” she said. “Despite the challenges, it was an honour to be part of such a momentous occasion.”

From top officials and cabinet ministers to on-the-ground staff, the collaborative effort behind CHOGM 2024 showcased the unity and resilience of Samoa’s workforce. Their sacrifices extended beyond physical labour to emotional and mental endurance, driven by a shared commitment to presenting Samoa in its best light on the global stage.

The legacy of CHOGM 2024 is not only one of diplomacy but also of human dedication. The civil servants who poured their hearts and souls into the event have set a benchmark for future endeavours, demonstrating that with unity and determination, Samoa can achieve greatness on the world stage.