It is a rare privilege to witness a young leader rise with unwavering passion. Carrying the legacy of her ancestors into the fight for climate justice. Lyric Maine Thomas Pera, a proud daughter of the Pacific, stands at the forefront of this movement. Dedicated to safeguarding the islands that have shaped her identity.
Born and raised on Dharug land, with ancestral roots in the Cook Islands, Samoa, and Fiji, Lyric embodies the essence of Pasifika resilience. Her connection to the land, sea, and people fuels her commitment to climate action, a journey that began at an early age.
At nine years old, Lyric was introduced to the stark reality of climate change. A moment she recalls vividly. Sitting in the car with her mother, she heard the devastating news. That the Pacific Islands, including her own, faced existential threats. This was due to rising sea levels and the climate crisis. Thinking that young people like herself, living away from their homelands. These people who would never experience the beauty and cultural richness of their island heritage struck a deep chord. That moment marked a turning point, igniting a lifelong dedication to the fight for climate justice.
Lyric is now the newly appointed NSW Coordinator for the Pacific Climate Warriors. She channels her passion into tangible action. Advocating for the protection of Pacific communities. She champions initiatives designed to uplift the voices of those on the frontline of the climate crisis.
A Steward of the Pacific
For Lyric, climate activism is about more than policy—it is about preservation. She understands that young Pacific Islanders are not merely inheritors of their lands but stewards. People entrusted with the duty to protect their ecosystems. The forests, oceans, and traditions that have shaped generations must endure—not only for the Pacific people, but for the world.
Lyric is currently leading efforts in the Pawa to the Ballot campaign. A crucial initiative empowering Pacific Islanders in Australia to make their voices count in the upcoming Australian Federal Election. With priorities centered on;
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Securing a safe and liveable climate
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Access to renewable energy,
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Job security and
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Fostering an authentic Pacific partnership.
The campaign urges Australia to break free from fossil fuel dependency and embrace the renewable energy revolution.
Many Pacific Islanders now call Australia home. They deserve representation in the decisions that impact their future. Through Pawa to the Ballot, Lyric ensures that their voices resonate—not just within the Pacific, but in the halls of power.
Leading the Charge
As Pacific leaders stand firm in their commitment to holding the line at 1.5 degrees Celsius, Lyric and her fellow warriors prepare for the critical years ahead. With COP31 potentially arriving in the region in 2026, the movement continues to grow, strengthened by the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be silenced.
Lyric Maine Thomas Pera stands as a beacon of hope—not only for her generation but for all who believe in a future where Pacific islands, cultures, and people do more than survive—they thrive. Through her leadership, advocacy, and relentless dedication, she reminds the world that the Pacific will never stop fighting for its right to exist.
The time to rise is now.