Nine Samoans have been chosen to represent the country at the upcoming Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF), set to take place in October coinciding with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Among these representatives are three young leaders who have shared their perspectives on the importance of youth empowerment and the role they will play in the Commonwealth Youth Forum CYF. 

The youngest is Okalani Mariner. She highlighted the importance of hospitality for CHOGM guests. She said she was honoured for the opportunity to represent not only Samoa but the Pacific.

"In terms of our culture and traditions, it would be the centre of all the work that we do, using this opportunity to leverage our Samoan heritage and promote our services is such a privilege for our people," she said.

Speaking with the Samoa Observer Gutu Fa'asau from the village of Moata'a expressed profound excitement to have been chosen, describing the appointment as if he had been selected to become prefect in a classroom with hundreds of students.

"It won’t be easy and at the same time, it won’t be hard because I know that we have a lot of capable people on board who will certainly make this great. I’ll be sure to put in my fair share of work and I’m excited to work with everyone in the Task Force" said Mr Faasau.

In response to queries sent by the Observer, James Faiumu from Matautu Lefaga, highlighted the establishment of a CYF task force which includes qualified regional representatives and Commonwealth professionals. He aims to engage as many youths across the Commonwealth through modern technology and social media during CHOGM 2024.

"The King said, “Our diversity is our greatest strength,” said James.

"The outcome of CHOGM this year including all policies agreed upon should reflect this diversity and strength. Different customs and traditions of all Commonwealth nations should be integrated as part of the CHOGM language this year and going forward." 

With over 300 youth leaders expected to participate in the two-day forum, Samoa's Minister for Women, Community, and Social Development, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo, expressed support for the CYF task force. She mentioned that the task force, symbolized by the Samoan proverb "ole tele o lima e mama ai le avega" (Many hands make the load easier), will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Forum at CHOGM in Samoa.

Representatives from 56 Commonwealth countries are coming together as youth leaders to collaborate with the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC), and the Government of Samoa in organising a forum focused on addressing pressing issues such as climate change and conflict.

The Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF) was established to ensure that the concerns and perspectives of young people are taken into consideration by governments. It serves as a vital platform for young individuals to voice their opinions as world leaders gather for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa. This year, the CYF is scheduled to take place from October 21 to 22, 2024, just days before CHOGM.