After eight years, the province of Macuata had its youth forum meeting.
The forum was aimed at empowering young leaders to drive conservation and community development through dynamic dialogue and innovative solutions.
The forum, themed “Empowering grassroots movement of Youth Leadership through learning and sharing for a Nature and People Positive Future,” brings together youth leaders, innovators and change makers across Macuata’s 12 districts to engage over two days in meaningful dialogue and to shape the future of their communities.
Over the two days, 80 youth representatives heard from influential youth leaders from the National Trust of Fiji Rangers and WWF-Fiji’s volunteer program on the significant impact they have made in their respective fields.
They also participated in skill-building sessions on topics ranging from entrepreneurship and technology to climate change and social activism.
WWF-Fiji’s Great Sea Reef Programme Manager Unaisi Malani-Tagicakibau said the forum was a movement aimed at mobilising and empowering young people of Macuata.
“It was to catalyse positive change and take the lead in shaping their future,” she said.
Ms Tagicakibau said they did not only learn and grow but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient tomorrow during the two days workshop.
“This is not limited to networking opportunities that connect youths to like-minded individuals, potential mentors and key stakeholders in the community.”
She said the forum represented a new dawn for the youth of Macuata.
“After nearly a decade, we are thrilled to provide a specific platform where young voices can be heard, and their ideas can flourish as well as provide support to the management structures like the Macuata Provincial Youth Council.”
The forum also spotlights the inclusive efforts of the Gender Equity Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) program, ensuring representation and active participation from youths living with disabilities, highlighting their vital role in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.