What an incredible moment for the Pacific! Fenton Lutunatabua, a proud son of Fiji, recently took the global TED stage to amplify the voice of the Pacific Climate Warriors (PCWs). He is a founding member of the PCWs and someone with over a decade of experience leading climate justice efforts with 350.org where he currently serves as the Deputy Head of Regions. Fenton’s appearance on this renowned platform marks a major milestone for the PCWs and the Pacific region in general.
It’s great to see a Pacific Islander rooted in the traditions and wisdom of his people, taking up space on this global platform to share stories of resilience, resistance, and leadership. During his TED Talk, Fenton recounts the moment his journey began. A young boy standing with his grandfather by the ocean, learning about the relationship between his family and the sea. This connection would later shape his passion for climate justice and the cultural pride that fuels his work to this day.
His TED Talk isn’t merely a personal narrative; it is a bold call to action from the heart of the climate crisis. He reminds the world of the disproportionate impacts faced by Pacific communities, even with them contributing less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions. His message was clear: “We are not drowning, we are fighting!”
Under his leadership, the Pacific Climate Warriors have rewritten their narratives. With landmark actions like the 2014 canoe blockade of the Newcastle coal port – the largest coal port in the world – the PCWs have demonstrated their defiance and determination to protect our Island homes. These actions are part of a greater vision Fenton has championed. A vision that blends climate leadership, like renewable energy solutions, with narrative leadership, ensuring Pacific stories are told with dignity and strength.
His career with 350.org has been nothing short of transformative. Over the years, Fenton has played a pivotal role, in building a global climate justice movement rooted in community, tradition, and collaboration. As Deputy Head of Regions, he continues to guide us. Through strategies and actions that challenge conventional norms and uplift vulnerable communities. His ability to merge the personal, cultural, and global aspects of climate advocacy is a testament to his unique vision and leadership.
Through his TED Talk, Fenton reminds the world that the Pacific is more than a victim of climate change. It is a leader in the fight for a better future. This achievement celebrates Pasifika voices on a global scale. Reinforcing the need to support communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis.
Fenton’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when courage, community, and culture come together to fight for justice. The Pacific Climate Warriors are leading the charge, but they cannot do it alone. As Fenton has shown us, we all have a role to play in shaping the future.
The fight for a fossil-free, dignified Pacific needs your voice. Join us in building the systems that serve our people and breaking the ones that don’t. Sign the ‘Our Pawa’ Petition today and stand in solidarity with the Pacific Climate Warriors. Together, we can amplify Pasifika leadership, empower communities, and ensure the stories we write are of resilience and victory.
