Celebrating Indigenous Youth: Agents of Change for Self-Determination in the Pacific
Photos of Okalani Marina (top left), India Logan-Riley (bottom) & Dr. Jess Pasisi (top right).
International Day of the World's Indigenous People is an occasion that calls for recognition and celebration of the contributions Indigenous communities bring to our global landscape. Today, the Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF) acknowledges the importance of this day on the calendar and acknowledges the heritage, wisdom, and resilience of indigenous peoples in the Pacific and beyond.
At the core of our strategic objectives of Strengthening Identity, Deepening Relationships, and Amplifying Voice, we affirm the right of Indigenous Peoples to make their own decisions and exercise self-determination. PCF further recognises the pivotal role of Indigenous youth as agents of change in the pursuit of self-determination.
In the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, three essential articles affirm that Indigenous Peoples, including their youth, possess the right to make decisions that are meaningful and culturally appropriate to them. This means that Indigenous Peoples have an equal right to govern themselves, placing them on an equal footing with all other Peoples.
Embracing their inherent right to self-determination, Indigenous youth are emerging as the driving force behind transformative change. As we grapple with pressing global challenges, these young changemakers are at the forefront, actively engaging in critical issues such as climate change, peacebuilding, and digital cooperation.
Adapting to a rapidly changing world, Indigenous youth are harnessing cutting-edge technologies and cultivating new skills to propose innovative solutions and contribute to a sustainable, harmonious future for both their communities and the planet. Their active representation and participation in initiatives are essential for ensuring the successful realisation of the right to self-determination for Indigenous Peoples. Moreover, it is through their involvement that the principles of collective and individual human rights, peaceful coexistence, and equality can be promoted and safeguarded.
We would like to highlight some of our youth from the region who are doing their part.
