‘Youth – Leaders of Tomorrow’ – 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament Opens

‘You—the youth—are our leaders of tomorrow; and you are in the periphery of that role, today.  You carry with you not just energy and enthusiasm, but a sense of purpose, a commitment to service, and a bold vision for the future.’

These were the sentiments highlighted by the Speaker of Parliament the Hon. Filimone Jitoko whilst opening the 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament at Holiday Inn last night.

The Hon. Speaker reminded the participants of the 2025 Youth Parliament that this is a unique opportunity for young people to actively engage with the democratic process—learning firsthand how laws are debated and made, how policies are developed, and how decisions that shape our nation are formed.

“More importantly, it is a platform for you to raise your voice; to express your ideas, share your concerns, and speak your truth. It is a space where your vision and hopes for the future of our country can be heard, respected and considered.”

Hon. Jitoko urged the youth participants to debate with conviction, listen with empathy, and act with purpose.

“Honour the Parliament and each other. Embrace disagreement with dignity. And above all, take the lessons and values you gain here back to your communities—continue to lead, inspire, and be the change you wish to see, both to your communities and the national stage.”

The Hon. Speaker thanked the development partners for their unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and civic education as it lays the groundwork for a more informed, engaged, and participatory Fiji, and more importantly in its steadfast pursuit of its Sustainable Development Goals.

Participant Mohammed Zain, a nurse in Taveuni, said he was nervous to join the Youth Parliament as he was the only participant from the island of Taveuni.

“But when I got to meet everyone at the opening ceremony last night, things just changed instantly as if I have known my fellow participants for years.”

“The feeling is really exciting and a marvelous job done by the organisers to bring different cultures together under one roof which was really beneficial as we got to know the different side of the country.”

Year 13 student from Swami Vivekandan College in Nadi, Ms Penjueli Finau said the words of the Hon. Speaker were really encouraging and she looks forward to learning new perspectives from the young participants.

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs the Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua, the UNDP Resident Representative Ms Munkhtuya Altangerel, the Ambassador of Japan to Fiji His Excellency Rokoichiri Michii, the Australian Acting Deputy High Commissioner Mr Andrew Shepherd and Opposition MP Hon. Ketan Lal were also present at the opening ceremony last night.

The 2025 Fiji Youth Parliament begins today at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat’s Conference Centre with the opening remarks by the Secretary-General Mrs Jeanette Emberson and the Vice President of the National Youth Council of Fiji Ms Selai Rasaqiwa.

Over the next three days, the youth participants will undergo workshop sessions focused on tailored-thematic areas. On Friday, the youth participants will take their seats in the Parliament Chambers and this Mock Sitting will be streamed live on the Parliament of Fiji Facebook page and broadcasted on the Parliament Channel on the Walesi platform.

-ENDS-