20 exceptional youth leaders from 11 countries across the Pacific are taking part in the International Basketball Federation Youth Leaders Programme this year, in a bid to foster collaboration, empowerment, and the exchange of ideas through sport.
Basketball Fiji says the conference aims to connect and empower youth through basketball, leadership training, and community engagement.
They say it aligns with FIBA’s mission to build stronger, more inclusive societies through sport.
Amanda Jenkins, Executive Director for FIBA Oceania, says this is the first time the programme is being held on a Pacific island outside of Australia and New Zealand.
She says the presence of the youth leaders speaks volumes about the unifying power of basketball, which brings people together, transcending borders, languages, and backgrounds.
While speaking at the opening of the week-long programme, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru says that sports is more than just a competition; it is a catalyst for social change, education, and personal growth.
He says the Basketball Good Foundation guided by FIBA has become a powerful platform for positive transformation, instilling values of teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and community engagement.
Saukuru says the Ministry is proud to support this initiative, and together with FIBA and Basketball Fiji, they are not only helping future sports stars but also shaping honest leaders who will bring change to their communities even after their time on the court.
The Minister also urged participants to embrace the lessons, friendships, and opportunities they receive throughout the programme.
He says this experience will help them become leaders of change, using sports to support social growth, inclusion, and learning throughout life.
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