Avcol students represent Pacific Islands at UN Youth

In October, five Avondale College students represented their island nations - Tonga, Niue, the Cook Islands, and Fiji - in video presentations for the UN Youth Event in the United States. The event focused on how climate change is affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and how young people can help advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Alicia Story, representing the Cook Islands, spoke about the beauty of her homeland and the challenges communities face with floods, droughts, and storms. “It’s devastating to live in New Zealand and watch your family suffer from climate change,” she said. “Those directly affected must have a powerful role in promoting the SDGs. That’s us - let’s act now.”

Kiri Pepena, from Fiji, described rising sea levels, stronger cyclones, and coral bleaching. “Climate change is not just an environmental issue - it’s about our survival, our culture, and our way of life,” she said. “We are not just the future; we are leaders today.”

Kenahemana Hekau, representing Niue, shared how changing weather patterns are affecting fishing and farming. She also highlighted Niue’s Ocean Wide Initiative, which protects 100% of its waters. “We may be small, but we are strong. We are not just leaders of tomorrow - we are protectors of today.”

Ava and Lily 'Uhila, from Tonga, spoke about Cyclone Gita and the resilience of their people. “When disaster strikes, youth are on the frontlines,” they said. “Our power comes from unity and determination. Protecting Tonga, the Pacific, and our planet is the same fight.”

These students’ voices are a powerful reminder that Pacific youth are not only raising awareness - they are leading the call for action on climate change.