Broderick Mervyn, the Fijian Youth Ambassador-Designate, took centre stage at the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture in Hawaii, urging Pacific leaders to prioritize the empowerment of Rotuman women and youth.
Representing the voice of Fiji's youth, Mervyn highlighted the vital importance of the Rotuman people in preserving their unique cultural identity.
He says the Rotuman culture is a vibrant tapestry woven by the hands of its women and the dreams of its youth.
Mervyn says by providing platforms for their voices and opportunities for leadership, they invest in the future sustainability of this precious heritage.
In his address, Mervyn urged regional bodies like the Pacific Community (SPC) to allocate dedicated funding for capacity-building training and community projects that empower Rotuman women and youth.
He argued that these initiatives would equip them with skills to drive economic development while celebrating their cultural roots.
He says investing in the empowerment of Rotuman women and youth is not just a cultural imperative but an economic one and by unlocking their potential, we will unlock a wellspring of innovation and sustainable growth for our communities.
