A Rising Force: Young Athletes in Kiribati Making a Difference

Meet Bereti, 16 Kenaz, 15 two spirited young athletes from Kiribati.

"My older sister is my inspiration. I was motivated to participate in the Pacific Games because of her. She once attended the SPG held in Samoa, competing in weightlifting. She won gold, and I aspire to achieve the same if I can." Bereti goes on to share that she hopes to be an inspiration for the children of Kiribati. "I want to encourage children who are not able to join the games this year to keep doing what you are doing because you still have time. By the time the next games come, your skills will be perfected."

Kenaz also shares his motivation for joining the Games, stating, "Two things drive my passion. First, I aim to proudly represent my country by displaying its flag wherever I go, especially at the Games. Secondly, I find inspiration in global track and field athletes, with Usain Bolt being the one I admire the most. I look up to him and strive to give my best, just like he does."

"I want to grow up and become a coach for the sport I'm playing," she adds. "I want to focus on coaching the young ones, especially girls." Bereti shares that in Kiribati, not many girls are interested in playing table tennis or know how to. "As a female athlete, it really inspires me to become a coach and to teach the Kiribati girls, like me, how to play the sport."

Kenaz, on the other hand, wants to inspire his peers who couldn't make it to the Pacific Games this year.

"I urge them to persist in their training, stay focused, and not be disheartened because they might have the opportunity to proudly represent the Kiribati flag in future games."

He stresses his commitment during the Games, stating, "My primary goal is to make the most of my time and concentrate on the competition to secure a medal. This achievement will bring happiness and satisfaction to my coach. The type of medal doesn't matter; as long as I achieve one, I will tell myself my dream came true."­

Believing that every child has the right to grow up in a sustainable environment, UNICEF emphasizes the children's right to play and grow up in a safe, sustainable setting where their hopes and dreams can come true.

In working towards this objective, UNICEF collaborates with partners to raise awareness of General Comment No. 26 (2023), emphasizing children's rights and the environment. This statement highlights the considerable impact of climate change on children and stresses the importance to protect their rights, especially in the face of environmental challenges.