UNICEF Names Moemoana Safa'ato'a Schwenke As A Pacific Ambassador
Samoan climate activist and former Miss Pacific Islands Moemoana Safa'ato'a Schwenke, has been announced as UNICEF Pacific's Ambassador. The appointment, which has been made today at the Pacific Early Childhood Development Forum, follows a two-day field visit to meet children and their families in Samoa.
'I am deeply humbled to accept this appointment as UNICEF's Pacific Ambassador. This is a continued commitment to what I believe is the soul of our region: our children,' said Moemoana. 'I offer myself fully to the work ahead, grounded in uplifting the needs, dreams and voices of our children and young people across our Blue Pacific Continent. I have met thousands of children across the Pacific in all the beautifully diverse parts of our region and they have been my inspiration.'
In her role as a UNICEF Pacific Ambassador, Moemoana will use her platforms and community engagement to help raise awareness of children's rights across the Pacific. This includes access to quality and inclusive education; health and nutrition services; water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities as well as protection from violence and abuse among other areas.
'Investing in our children means investing in a stronger Pacific. Our Pacific young people need us to be better, to continue being the leaders they deserve. And now, I carry that forward to be a voice for those who are still finding theirs, and to ensure that no child in our Pacific is left unheard, unseen or forgotten. Children are our greatest gift,' she added.
24-year-old Moemoana was crowned Miss Samoa in 2023 and then later also as Miss Pacific Islands in 2024. She is also a creative and performing arts practitioner and an avid siva afi (fire-knife dancing) performer. Moemoana, who refers to herself as a custodian of Pacific environment, culture, and people, is a dedicated advocate for children and youth with a particular interest in the effects of climate change on marginalized communities. She delivered a speech on climate change during the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) and attended COP28.
'We are so excited to welcome Moemoana into the UNICEF family as an ambassador. Such a strong and inspirational role model for our young generation,' said UNICEF Pacific's Representative, Jonathan Veitch."Her dedication to preserving cultural values, art, and beliefs will inspire families to weave child rights into their cherished traditions at home – whether through dance, singing, or other unique ways - rooted in the rich heritage of the Pacific.'
During her visit to Savai'i Island in Samoa, Moemoana met with children and families as well as health workers and teachers. She learned about the importance of quality health and nutrition services, especially for young children. In the Pacific, despite the good progress made in reducing child mortality over the past decades, not all children grow and develop to their full potential.
'During my time in Savai'i with UNICEF, I witnessed the strength of our communities, where health workers, schools, village leaders and families work together to protect the wellbeing of every child through immunization,' said Moemoana. ' In these remote parts of Samoa, care is rooted in culture, love, relationships, and service. True progress happens when communities lead, supported by partnerships that listen, respect, and empower. I remain committed to standing with our villages to ensure that no child is left behind.'
Moemoana joins the current UNICEF Pacific Ambassadors including Pita Taufatofua and Gladys Habu.
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