Pacific Voices

The sea is central to life and culture in Kiribati and other atoll countries. In the final episode, Simon talks with his friend and colleague Aranteiti Tekiau, an expert diver and marine researcher, about the Kiribati people’s relationship with the ocean, just how long local free divers can stay underwater, and the enduring pull of home.

What is it like to grow up in a country that your president says is sinking? Baniti Semilota, president of Kiribati’s first youth-led organization Tungaru Youth Action, speak with Simon about giving back, and the challenges of taking action in a male-dominated, hierarchical culture.

Contrary to what you might expect from international media coverage, climate change is not front of mind for everyone in Kiribati. Youth leader Tiein Taebo talks with Simon about raising awareness about climate change and marine conservation among young people in Kiribati.

Adapting to climate change often involves a mix traditional knowledge and western science.  In the final Fiji episode, Simon talks with student and adaptation researcher Simione Naivalu about bridging the gap between different cultures and forms of knowledge in Fiji and the Pacific. 

Adapting to climate change can require awkward marriage of local customs and outside assistance. Graduate student and disaster risk expert Ratu Tevita Rarokolutu talks with Simon about traditional customs, the resilience of Fijian communities, and the biases in ranking climate risk.

If Salote Nasalo can't motivate you to care about climate change, perhaps no one can. Simon talks to the Fijian student and activist about her life story and her experience representing Fiji and the Pacific at a United Nations climate summit.

Space can be hard to find in South Tarawa, the crowded capital region of Kiribati. Waste and coastal management expert Kaiea Ribanatakee talks with Simon about his path and the cultural challenge of changing habits in Tarawa. 

Ruth Cross is the definition of a change-maker. The Obama Foundation Leader and Kiribati National Order of Merit holder talks with Simon about overcoming adaptation obstacles, how her country got its name, and what that says about its spirit and culture.

Climate and development consultant Erietera Aram might be Kiribati’s Tony Robbins. Erietera and Simon talk about the cultural differences between Kiribati islands, his work mentoring youth, and what it takes to be a member of the Tabaua (“crazy”) Community.

You probably don't recognize the name Claire Anterea, but you've probably heard the longtime Kiribati climate activist speak. Simon meets with his friend of many years to talk about finding the courage to step out on the international stage, and working with international funders to adapt to climate change.

We’ve all heard about low-lying islands in the Pacific threatened by rising seas.  What it is like to really live there? How are people responding to climate change? What do they think about the future of their countries? Join climate scientist Simon Donner for a series of in-person conversations with friends and youth leaders in Kiribati and Fiji about local perspectives on climate change, the challenge of getting your voice heard on the international stage, and the resilience of Pacific cultures.