CMY visited by Kiribati’s Minister for Women, Youth, Sport & Social Affairs
On 1 May, CMY’s Carlton office was visited by the Honourable Minister for Women, Youth, Sport & Social Affairs of Kiribati, Ruth Cross Kwansing. In attendance were Spirit of Kiribati’s leader and founder, Florence Robertson and its President Nei Ana.
Fiona Mathieson, Assistant Director for the North Pacific Section at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) attended as well, with Nei Taa representing the Victorian Kiribati Association. Staff and volunteers of CMY’s Le Mana Pasfika program as well as our CMSport team were there to join the conversation.
The visit was an opportunity for leaders to come together to discuss the future for empowering Pasifika youth, particularly in Victoria.
A traditional garland dance was presented by the Spirit of Kiribati. Our guests were also presented with ‘ula lole’ (Lolly leis) which were designed and made by young Pasifika entrepreneurs who own their own business: Shake It Lemon.
In attendance was Gabriella, an 18-year-old member of the Le Mana Pasifika Youth Advisory Group (YAG). She shared her own lived experience as a young Pasifika person born and raised in Narrm (Melbourne).
“It’s great to learn about other Pasifika cultures and I’m really looking forward to how we can learn more from strong female leaders in the Pacific (region).”
