The Heritage Guardians: Youth Voices in Conservation Workshop wrapped up on Friday at the Return to Paradise Resort in Lefaga with a certificate ceremony, received by 26 youth from Palau, New Caledonia, Fiji, Singapore, USA and Samoa.

It was a truly inspiring and unforgettable week for the participants. There were meaningful discussions and learning exchanges to forge new friendships and connections across borders. The workshop has been a celebration of youth leadership in cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.

Aile Tikoure from New Caledonia says “in my home country I always advocate for hands on experience to be incorporated into classroom learning. This exchange has done just that, and I am so appreciative of the opportunity to be part of it. Often, I see so many people going to workshops and conferences, but they don’t have any action grounded in their communities in their own home countries. Im so glad to meet so many youths here that work with their communities.”

The participants are keen to take back the lessons learned from this exchange to build their own projects within their communities. “This is the first environmental youth forum hosted by Conservation International and one of the main objectives was to recognize the youths contributions in conservation efforts and help amplify their voices in driving positive change in building a sustainable future for our region” says Samoa Ocean’s Director Leausalilo Leilani Duffy-Iosefa. “Empowering and inspiring young people to take the lead in conservation is not just about protecting our planet, it's about safeguarding our shared heritage for generations to come. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by our youth participants during the Heritage Guardians forum reaffirmed the transformative power of youth voices in shaping a sustainable future”

Conservation International and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment would like to acknowledge the support from the Blue Nature Alliance, Waitt Foundation, Blackmore Foundation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade NZ, European Union & the Samoa Care Project.