On the frontline of the climate crisis: the Chevening Alumnus amplifying Tuvalu’s voice on the world stage

Niuone’s Story

I’m from Tuvalu, a small yet culturally rich Pacific island nation. Our vibrant traditions have instilled in me a profound pride in my heritage. However, beneath this beauty lies a grim reality: Tuvalu faces existential threats from climate change, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events. The impact of climate change permeates every aspect of life in Tuvalu, affecting our economy and the daily lives of our people.

The climate and surrounding ocean are central to our livelihoods. One of my fondest childhood memories is fishing with my grandfather in his small wooden vaka (a traditional canoe). We would return to sell our catch at the Motuloto fishing market. This connection to our land fuels my passion for sharing Tuvalu’s experiences and advocating for urgent global action to confront the climate crisis.

My Chevening experience has been instrumental in my pursuit of solutions to the national challenges posed by climate change and sustainable development. I chose to apply for Chevening because of its prestigious global reputation for developing young leaders. In 2019, I earned a Master of Science in Climate Change, Development, and Policy from the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex—a programme perfectly aligned with the issues we face in Tuvalu.

“Through my interactions with fellow Chevening Scholars from around the world, I gained a fresh, global perspective.”

My Chevening year was transformative, equipping me with the skills, knowledge, and networks essential for advancing my career in public service in Tuvalu. Rigorous academic training, diverse perspectives, and immersive practical experiences allowed me to develop expertise in climate change, development policy, and international relations. I gained a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges confronting Tuvalu and other small island nations.

Currently, I serve as the First Secretary at the Tuvalu High Commission in New Zealand, where I represent Tuvalu’s interests and promote cooperation between Tuvalu and New Zealand.

My favourite aspect of this role is being a bridge between our two nations, fostering understanding and friendship. It is a tremendous source of pride and fulfillment to represent Tuvalu’s rich culture and heritage in a multicultural environment.

“I am committed to leveraging my Chevening experience to advance Tuvalu’s sustainable development goals and ensure a resilient future for generations to come.”

As a low-lying atoll nation, the climate crisis poses an existential threat to Tuvalu. If we are serious about preserving our small island states, time is of the essence. The thought of our homeland being submerged, along with the lands where our ancestors rest, is profoundly distressing for Tuvaluans. Our connection to the land runs deep and ties us to our heritage and forebears.

Given the urgency of these challenges, addressing the climate crisis is our top priority. We actively engage in international forums, advocating for ambitious climate action, increased support for adaptation, and equity in climate justice. These efforts are vital for safeguarding our people, protecting our environment, and securing a future for the next generations.

Every Tuvaluan is engaged in the fight against climate change, confronting it on multiple fronts—physical, emotional, and mental. We are a resilient people, accustomed to adapting to challenges. No matter where we find ourselves in the world, we remain committed to raising awareness about the climate crisis’s impact.

“One crucial action we can take is to amplify Tuvalu’s voice on this issue.”

This mission is at the core of my work here in New Zealand. We emphasize the critical need for not only providing climate adaptation support but also ensuring that it is accessible to every Tuvaluan. By advocating for equitable access to resources, we empower our people to withstand the challenges posed by the climate crisis and safeguard the future of Tuvalu.