Fijian climate activist Komal Narayan has been awarded the prestigious Simone Veil Prize award by the Embassy of France in Suva.
At the presentation this week, French Ambassador to Fiji François-Xavier Léger said Mrs Narayan had proven through her actions that change is possible through perseverance and passion.
The 29-year-old said it was an honour to receive the award as International Women’s Day was being celebrated.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to be representing not just my country but the entire Pacific in the work that we, women and young girls, are doing to advance climate action,” Mrs Narayan said.
The Simon Veil Award honours people from around the world fighting for women’s course, and this year it recognised women’s leadership in climate change.
Mrs Narayan was nominated by the French embassy for her efforts and commitment towards the protection of the ocean in Fiji.
“My goal in life is to be part of a society that is focused on addressing the issues of climate justice and encouraging and motivating more young people to be more involved in this space.
“I believe this issue is not just yours or mine but an issue that is at the heart of the entire Pacific.
“I have seen firsthand the dire impacts of climate change on my country and my people.”
Mrs Narayan has been advancing climate actions with youth organisations such as the Sustainable Ocean Alliance and Alliance for Future Generations Fiji and Active Citizens.
“We always hear that women have the power to change the world, women are better able to adapt to changing surroundings, and with this the world should recognise that women should also have an equal voice when it comes to policies and decision-making.”
The Simone Veil Prize is accompanied by a sum of 100,000 euros, approximately $F231,000, to be used for an action in line with the causes defended by the recipient.
Mrs Narayan said to honour the Simone Veil Prize, her goal would be to increase climate awareness and advocacy in the rural and maritime areas of Fiji and the Pacific, where young girls and women might not have the opportunity to participate in platforms.
Mrs Narayan is the Pacific islands representative of the Sustainable Ocean Alliance.
