Bhavna Mala

Bhavna is an environmental and climate professional with a background in environmental science, climate change, and law. Passionate about governance and policy, she is dedicated to advocating for climate resilience, social justice, and ethical leadership in Fiji and the Pacific.

With experience in sustainable development projects, community engagement, and legal research, Bhavna sees the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program as an opportunity to strengthen her policy analysis and advocacy skills. She is eager to contribute to climate action through impactful knowledge products, regional collaboration, and leadership that drives meaningful change.

Christal Kapoor

Christal is a PR and Communications Consultant at Fiji National University with a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy. Passionate about climate action, gender, and Pacific regionalism, she aims to pursue a PhD and a future career as a diplomat or policymaker.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, she seeks to strengthen her leadership and advocacy skills, bridging policy, academia, and grassroots efforts. Christal is committed to shaping narratives that amplify Pacific voices in climate governance and advancing sustainable, inclusive policies for the region.

Joseph Kumar

Joseph is a Communications and Outreach Officer at UNDP, focused on making climate and development issues more accessible to diverse audiences. With a background in research and teaching as a former USP tutor, he transitioned into climate advocacy to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public engagement.

He has experience in strategic messaging, policy engagement, and stakeholder coordination, with previous roles at WWF Pacific and Alliance for Future Generations Fiji. Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Joseph aims to strengthen his advocacy skills, enhance his impact in climate communication, and drive meaningful change across the Pacific.

Litiana Lagibalavu

Litiana is a climate justice advocate and communications specialist transitioning into a policy-focused career. As the Co-Focal Point Officer for Gender and Human Rights at Alliance for Future Generations Fiji, she leads climate advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and policy discussions on climate justice and human rights. With experience in donor-funded projects and grassroots mobilisation, she is passionate about bridging community-driven action with policy influence.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Litiana aims to strengthen her expertise in climate adaptation, policy development, and regional climate governance to drive meaningful change in the Pacific.

Milinai Veiogo

Miliniai is a Business Adviser with the Market Development Facility, working to strengthen private sector resilience in the Pacific. She specialises in identifying market challenges and partnering with businesses, governments, and associations to develop solutions that improve economic systems.

As a member of the MDF climate change working group, she is committed to integrating climate adaptation and mitigation into business strategies.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Miliniai aims to deepen her expertise in climate risks, enhance her ability to support businesses, and drive sustainable economic solutions in the Pacific.

Josevata Qava

Josevata is the Executive Officer for the Nadroga Navosa Provincial Council, where he leads governance, community development, and conservation initiatives. With a strong background in stakeholder engagement and policy implementation, he is passionate about integrating climate resilience into local development strategies. Currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Climate Change, he is actively involved in conservation efforts, including mangrove restoration and community outreach programs.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Josevata aims to strengthen his leadership and advocacy skills, driving sustainable solutions for rural communities in Fiji.

Keresi Tuimanono

Keresi is an Environmental Officer at Basic Industries Limited with nearly a decade of experience in geoscience, environmental management, and disaster risk resilience. She is committed to advocating for sustainable solutions to climate change and environmental risks caused by non-sustainable development. Her work includes implementing environmental policies, conducting compliance monitoring, and leading community engagement on rehabilitation and conservation.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Keresi aims to strengthen her expertise in climate policy, indigenous knowledge, and sustainable adaptation strategies to drive meaningful action in Fiji and the Pacific.

Yashoda Chetty

Yashoda is a researcher and youth advocate passionate about climate justice, gender equity, and sustainability. With a background in psychology and social work, she provides consultancy services on sustainable tourism and environmental risks.

She has led and contributed to various advocacy initiatives, including mangrove restoration, coral planting, and gender-focused climate research.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Yashoda aims to strengthen her leadership, gain expertise in climate finance and grant writing, and drive impactful, community-led climate solutions in the Pacific.

Kulae Ramua

Kulae is a GIS Officer at the Locally Managed Marine Areas Network, where she uses geospatial technology to support conservation efforts and empower local communities in managing their natural resources. With a background in Geospatial Science, she is passionate about visualizing environmental data to drive sustainable solutions. She is actively involved in projects like “Resilient and Sustainable Vunaniu Village,” focusing on mangrove restoration and climate resilience.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Kulae aims to deepen her understanding of climate policies, strengthen her advocacy skills, and contribute to sustainable development in Fiji.

Ratu Rabeka Drauna

Ratu Rabeka is a marine biologist turned climate advocate, currently serving as a Board Member for the Commonwealth Youth Council’s Pacific Region Supporting Committee. With expertise in marine conservation, biodiversity monitoring, and environmental education, he has expanded his focus to climate policy, governance, and advocacy. A Youth Climate Ambassador Programme (YCAP) scholar and UNICEF Young People’s Action Team (YPAT) member, he is dedicated to strengthening climate resilience in the Pacific.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Ratu Rabeka aims to bridge science and policy, enhancing his ability to drive impactful climate action and governance initiatives.

Eseta Drova

Eseta is an Indigenous researcher focused on integrating traditional ecological knowledge with scientific research to address climate change and environmental challenges in the Pacific. As a research assistant, she works on projects exploring marine plastic pollution and community adaptation strategies in Fiji and Samoa. Passionate about empowering communities, she is committed to bridging research and grassroots action.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Eseta aims to strengthen her ability to translate research into policy and practical solutions that enhance climate resilience and sustainability in Pacific communities.

Semi Qamese

Semi is a final-year law student at the University of the South Pacific, passionate about environmental law, climate advocacy, and policy development. He has volunteered with WWF on Disaster Risk Reduction and Fisheries & Mangrove Management in Macuata and has engaged in sustainability initiatives at USP. With experience as a paralegal, he aims to use legal expertise to strengthen climate governance in the Pacific.

Through the Climate Advocacy Accelerator Program, Semi hopes to refine his advocacy skills, contribute to policy solutions, and drive meaningful climate action in the region.