The meeting aimed to give updates on the HIYH programme, share experiences in environmental education, review the current curriculum, and plan activities for 2025. A major highlight was the support from IUCN and the Kiwa Initiative programme, which has been essential for the HIYH programme. Elizabeth Erasito, Director of the National Trust of Fiji, said the support from IUCN was commendable. “Since they came on board, we have greatly benefited in communication, visibility, grants, and funding.”
The HIYH programme started in 2016 with Shangri-La Yanuca Island and aims to raise awareness about the environment among children. It is part of the Kiwa Initiative’s project focused on building coastal resilience at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes.
During the meeting, IUCN Oceania Kiwa Initiative Communications Officer, Shreeya Verma presented on the importance of social media for environmental advocacy.
In her session, titled “Children’s Voices – Kiwa Perspective,” she shared insights from social media sessions she had conducted with HIYH eco campers in May and September 2024. She explained that social media helps children speak up for a cause they care about.
“Social media is a powerful tool for advocacy. It empowers children to advocate for causes they care about,” she said.
Recalling her sessions with the children during the Eco camps, Ms. Shreeya noted, “The joy on the children’s faces when they learn something new is priceless. It shows that they are eager to make a difference.”
She highlighted a specific moment when the children were asking questions about how to create environmental messages. She said, “Their curiosity showed how eager they are to learn and make an impact. It’s inspiring to see them wanting to become advocates for the environment.”
Ms. Verma also highlighted the importance of teamwork among the Junior Rangers.
“Working together builds friendships and deepens their understanding of environmental issues. Collaboration is key to making a real impact,” she said.
Shreeya emphasised the role of social media in this process, saying, “These platforms allow young people to share their experiences and connect with a wider audience, amplifying their voices.”
She encouraged everyone to support these young advocates, stating, “Every child has the potential to inspire change. We just need to give them the platform.”
She added that by sharing their stories online, they can motivate others to take action in their communities and raise awareness about environmental issues.
The Junior Rangers shared their thoughts, saying that social media has become a strong tool for them. Jason Tutani, NTF Education Programme Manager and HIYH coordinator, pointed out the need to use more social media platforms to increase their visibility and advocacy efforts.
Looking ahead, the partnership between the National Trust of Fiji and the Kiwa Initiative will continue to grow. With the help of partners and the energy of young advocates, we are working toward a sustainable future for our heritage and environment.
The Kiwa Initiative is funded by the European Union (EU), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT), and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
The Kiwa Initiative has established partnerships with the Pacific Community (SPC), the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), and the Oceania Regional Office of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
