Samoa Youth Dialogue Building a Pathway for Future Generations

Apia, Samoa – 02 September 2024 – The Samoa Youth Dialogue, a vital component of the global Summit of the Future, brought together young leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting Samoan youth and their future.

The dialogue was hosted by the National University of Samoa 27 and 28 August and Co-convened by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, the Samoa UN Country Team, and the National University of Samoa.

Under the “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow” banner, the Samoa Youth Dialogue took inspiration from the recent SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit held in Antigua and Barbuda. It focused on the opportunities and challenges facing young people, advocating for their involvement in decision-making processes at all levels.

NUS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa alongside the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Themba Kalua, highlighted the importance of youth engagement in shaping policies that affect their lives.

“This dialogue explores themes on Global Challenges such as Climate Change, and Environmental Sustainability, emphasizing Samoa’s vulnerabilities as a small island developing state, said Professor Tuifuisa’a.

“The engagement and dynamism of our youth displayed during the Samoa Youth Dialogue confirm their vital role as change-makers,” said the UN Resident Coordinator. “By amplifying their voices, we are committed to ensuring that the interests of young Samoans are reflected in local, national, and global policy discussions.”

Keynote Sessions Panelists for the theme: Gender Equality and Social Inclusion – Agnes Fruean, Alex Su’a, Mataafa Faatino Utumapu.

The dialogue included insightful panel discussions on Youth Empowerment and Civic Participation, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion, and Digital Transformation and Innovation.

Each session aimed to foster collaboration between generations and illuminate the importance of cultural heritage in developing resilient communities.

 Youth delegates, civil society organizations, government officials, and various stakeholders committed to enhancing the future of young Samoans were in attendance.

Samoa Youth Fono Organising Committee Group Photo – Miss La-Toya Lee – UN Development Coordination Officer – Data, Moemoana Safato’a Schwenke – Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific, Saui’a Dr. Louise Matai’a-Milo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts (FOA), Tavu’i Dr. Niusila Fa’amanatu Eteuati, Dean of the Faculty of Education (FOE), FOA & FOA Staff.

The second day of the event featured an Intergenerational Dialogue Session, where participants engaged in discussions surrounding Cultural Preservation and Threats to Samoan Youth. This session underscored the significance of preserving Samoan traditions amidst globalization and environmental challenges.

As the dialogue concluded, the participants expressed their commitment to crafting an outcome document called the Pact for the Future. This actionable framework will address current challenges and prepare for future obstacles, benefiting humanity and future generations.

Overall, the Samoa Youth Dialogue exemplifies the collective vision of empowering youth voices, promoting cultural resilience, and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

Reverend Challis Suikī Pupi – EFKS Samusu, Aleipata, NUS Vice-Chancellor & President – Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, Samoa UN Country Team, Samoa Youth Delegates, Civil society organizations, government officials, and various stakeholders.