SUVA – Today the U.S. Embassy welcomed youth, teachers, Fiji government representatives, NGO staff and community leaders to celebrate International Youth Day with a small fair showcasing programs, resources, and opportunities targeting youth as well as food music and sports.
United States Ambassador to Fiji Joseph Cella remarked about the day, “The theme of this year’s U.S. Embassy’s youth day is “Youth in Action!” We chose this theme because youth participation is integral to the work that the United States is pursuing throughout the Indo-Pacific. Because we recognize how important youth participation is in building bridges to a prosperous and sustainable future for Fiji, we collaborate with youth, with the goal of providing the opportunities and resources to assist youth, and helping in the formation of their minds and hearts, in meeting their individual, family and community goals.”
As part of the celebrations, the U.S. Embassy teamed up with the Peace Corps, Ministry of Youth and Sports and the SPC’s Youth and Social Inclusion team to hold an information fair that showcased their commendable work and shared information about their services with the participants.
Marking the milestone of the occasion, Deputy Chief of Mission Tony Greubel highlighted a new U.S. Embassy initiative. “It is my hope that this gathering leads to the first step in the creation of a Youth Council with the purpose of tuning into the needs of youth in the region, collaborating and finding solutions to major challenges together. Partnering with Pacific governments and civil society, the United States will continue to work in support of the future of the region.”
The fair promoted healthy fun and fellowship with sports, healthy local food, science activities to entice some playful competition amongst those present at the event in addition to several information booths that elaborated on youth programs. The U.S. Embassy looks forward to continuing our collaborative engagement with youth.