For the youth of New Zealand, the Defence Force can serve as a stepping stone, opening doors, providing training, and facilitating qualifications. The opportunity to travel the world while being paid to work is an enticing prospect, making it an appealing option after completing high school or university. Few other jobs offer such a unique chance for global exposure and professional development.

Kia ora, whanau! As the dust settles on COP28 in Dubai, I'm here to break down the buzzwords and billion-dollar commitments that dominated the headlines. It's not just about climate resilience, mitigation, and adaptation; it's about what these terms mean for us, the youth in Aotearoa, and our cousins across the Moana.

Xmas Greetings from the Team at Pacific Cooperation Foundation.

So, listen up, world – youth voice ain't just noise. It's the beat to the climate change jam, and we're turning up the volume!

Food, especially pork, serves as a unifying force, connecting diverse cultures and fostering a sense of community. Through Kwaita’s passion and dedication, the Pacific witnesses not just a feast but the preservation of tradition, a celebration of unity, and a reminder of the strength found in togetherness.

The Sol23 Pacific Games have descended upon the Solomon Islands, marking a momentous occasion that transcends mere athletic competition. This vibrant event, hosted in the heart of the Pacific, not only showcases the incredible sporting talents of our island nations but also serves as a powerful testament to the spirit of unity, resilience, and support that defines the Pacific way of life.

In the midst of captivating keynote speakers and expert presentations, F’INE Fest orchestrated illuminating panel discussions, giving voice to representatives from the Pasifika rainbow community across Aotearoa. These discussions delved into the pressing issues affecting the intersectionality of their community. Notably, the challenges faced by young Pasifika individuals in seeking familial support and the quest for accessible and supportive healthcare without exacerbating existing disparities took centre stage.

Partnerships are crucial for the region’s continued growth and prosperity with Saudi Arabia providing seed funding of $50m to establish the Pacific Resilience Facility.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the Punanga Nui Market, the Pacific Partnerships for Prosperity Pavilion stands as a testament to the spirit of collaboration and progress during the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in 2023. The Pavilion emerges as a symbolic hub, dedicated to honouring the resilience of the Pacific in the face of climatic challenges, showcasing economic innovation, and celebrating the strength of community enterprise.

In a groundbreaking turn of events at the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, the Pacific ACP Leaders gathered to deliberate on seizing opportunities and driving progress in one of the world's most climate-vulnerable regions. The imminent Samoa Agreement, set to replace the longstanding Cotonou Agreement, is poised to revolutionise relations between the EU and the Pacific, marking a pivotal moment for the region.

The Samoa Agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the EU and her Member States and the Member States and Regions of the OACPS, and highlights key priorities for partnership, including human rights, democracy and governance, peace and security, human and social development, inclusive sustainable economic growth and development, environmental sustainability and climate change, migration and mobility. It has a common foundation and three regional protocols, which aim to focus on the specific needs of Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific regions.

Kalafi Moala, a venerable figure in journalism, boasts a distinguished career that spans an impressive 34 years. Hailing from Tonga, Moala has made indelible contributions to the field of journalism, leaving an enduring mark through his commitment to truth, integrity, and fearless reporting. Throughout his extensive career, he has been a guiding force, using his platform to illuminate and champion critical issues within Tonga and beyond. His dedication and unwavering passion for storytelling have established him as a respected figure, earning widespread admiration and recognition in the realm of journalism.

In a world where information dissemination is integral to progress, the Pacific Islands Forum reinforces the importance of gender equality, cultural sensitivity, and media responsibility. These discussions and commitments signal a step forward in building a more equitable and informed future for the region.

With "Our Voices, Our Choices, Our Pacific Way" as the chosen theme for this year's Forum, Prime Minister Brown underscored the importance of defining development trajectories and fostering partnerships to achieve their vision. He also acknowledged the leadership of Tuvalu as the SIS Chair since 2019 and challenges faced by the region during the past five years.

The Government of Kiribati formally reinstated its positive endorsement to rejoin the Pacific Islands Forum earlier in January this year.

President Taneti Maamau expressed their commitment to rejoining and remaining with the forum amidst growing geopolitical interest in the region.

In an exclusive interview with Pasifika TV, Maamau says they are happy to return to the forum and join their Pacific brothers in making the Pacific a great place to live and work.

The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Media Workshop kicked off with a warm welcome to dignitaries, media editors, resource support teams, and friends from across the Pacific region. Hosted in the idyllic Cook Islands, the event brings together key stakeholders in a collaborative effort to address climate change and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

The Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Pacific Corporation Broadcasting Limited - Pasifika TV. This collaboration aims to provide extensive and up-to-date news coverage during the upcoming month of regional events, including the 52nd Pacific Island Forum Leaders meeting in the Cook Islands, The Pacific Games Solomon Islands 2023, and COP 28 in Dubai.

PCF has a clear and noble mission: to provide platforms for Pacific voices and expertise and be a respected partner in reimagining the Pacific narrative. This mission aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, and we believe it is essential for Aotearoa New Zealand and the broader Pacific community to embrace this opportunity fully.

In a world where the voices of young leaders are becoming increasingly essential, PCF’s upcoming webinar promises to inspire and empower. Titled "Empowering Youth Voices: Unveiling the Youth Report & Pacific Perceptions," this webinar will feature three panellists who are making a significant impact in their respective fields. These young leaders believe in the power of mobilising their peers to amplify their voices and take pride in their unique perspectives as young people in today's society.

To celebrate Niue Language Week, Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF) brings you an exclusive ‘Tok Talk’ with Antonia Kulatea. She is a young leader, a devoted mother, and an extraordinary advocate for her Niuean heritage. At Chorus here in New Zealand, Antonia serves as the Diversity & Inclusion Advisor, working to create an inclusive and diverse workplace environment. Beyond her professional life, she dedicates her time to her family and actively promotes her Niuean heritage.