On 29 April 2025 (from 1:00PM-3:00PM AEST), WLI hosted an online Learning & Networking event exploring youth activism in the Pacific and mobilising change across regional, national, and international spaces.
The event was hosted for Australia Awards scholars and alumni from the Pacific and their families, as well as development colleagues in our region.
About youth activism in the Pacific
Youth activism in the Pacific is a dynamic and growing movement that addresses various social, environmental, and political issues. According to UNFPA (2024), approximately 1.2 million young people aged 15-24 comprise 20% of the population in Pacific Island countries. Despite this significant demographic presence, youth in the Pacific often face structural barriers that hinder their meaningful participation in decisions that directly impact their futures.
About this event
By bringing together keyspeakers, this event aimed to foster conversations on strengthening youth participation in decision-making processes and recognising young people merely as beneficiaries of development initiatives, but as crucial partners in shaping a sustainable and equitable future for the Pacific region.
The event featured a live expert panel diccussion, audience Q&A, and break-out group discussions to explore the topic in further depth.
About the expert panel
An expert panel spoke from their own experiences of advocating for positive change in the Pacific.
Moderated by Dr Aidan Craney from La Trobe University’s Centre for Human Security and Social Change, the panel discussion featured:
- Belyndar Rikimani – Awareness Chair of Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change,
- Miliana Iga – Coordinator of the Pacific Youth Council, and
- Sulueti Waqa – Programmes Coordinator of femLINKPacific.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday 29 April 2025
Time: 1:00PM to 3:00PM (AEDT)
Location: Online, via Zoom
What's next?
A summary paper on this event is coming soon.