Date: 24 Mar 2025
Attendees of the Youth Leaders Workshop pictured with the Fiji Minister for Youth & Sports, Hon. Jese Saukuru (front row-5th from left), during the opening of the workshop.
Earlier this month, youth leaders from across Fiji gathered at the FTA Hall in Suva for the Youth Leaders Workshop, aimed at strengthening youth engagement in governance and leadership.
Hosted by the National Youth Council of Fiji (NYCF) and supported by Balance of Power (BOP), the workshop encouraged young people to embrace shared leadership and play a more active role in decision-making. The initiative is aligned to the key priorities of the National Youth Policy as well as feeding into the currently developed National Youth Development Framework.
NYCF Vice President, Selai Rasaqiwa, said the workshop provided key insights for youth leaders as they prepared for the challenges ahead.
“Discussions covered pressing issues like the impact of drugs on youth, bridging the intergenerational gap and civic engagement,” Rasaqiwa said.
She also expressed gratitude to Balance of Power for providing support.
In her closing remarks, Balance of Power Executive Director, Mereani Rokotuibau, urged young people to redefine leadership.
“Leadership isn’t about titles or popularity, it’s about taking action, even when no one is watching. Many want quick results or recognition, but real leadership is about consistency and responsibility,” Rokotuibau said.
She shared her own experience as a Youth Advisor, advocating for youth inclusion in village decision-making and emphasized the need for youth to step up.
The workshop featured panel discussions and interactive sessions, allowing young leaders to develop action plans for their communities. Key discussions also addressed social issues, including drug abuse and civic participation.
As the event concluded, participants committed to embracing shared leadership and driving positive change. A post-workshop report will outline recommendations for strengthening youth engagement in Fiji’s governance.
End