Pacific Climate Justice TREK

Brock Sivon

Hello! Today is Tuesday, June 23, 2026. We left Nadi early this morning after spending six incredible days in Tuvalu. Looking back, those six days were some of the most meaningful, joyful, and eye-opening experiences I have had in a long time. The culture in Tuvalu is unlike anything I have ever encountered. The people have such a strong connection to one another, their land, and their faith. Even while facing the realities of an environmental crisis, they show resilience, kindness, and hope.

Although we have now left Tuvalu, I am more motivated than ever to advocate for the people I met there. Through conversations, prayers, dancing, singing, and games, we created memories and relationships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. One conversation in particular has stayed with me. Tala, our van driver and program leader, told me during our final days, “Don’t forget Tuvalu. You are our voice. We need your help.” Those words have been on my mind ever since. The people of Tuvalu are doing everything they can to protect their homeland, but many larger countries, especially major emitters like the United States, continue to contribute to the challenges they face. Hearing their stories firsthand made the issue feel much more personal and urgent.

Our final picture together with the Mizpah youth before heading to Nadi. Credit: Brock Sivon

We departed from the Island Adventures port in Nadi and traveled about two hours by ferry to Barefoot Kuata Island Resort in Fiji’s Yasawa Islands. The ride over was beautiful with clear blue water and amazing island views surrounding us the entire way. When we arrived we were welcomed by an Indigenous Fijian standing on top of a large rock in the ocean. He was performing a traditional greeting. It was a great first impression and a reminder of the strong culture that exists throughout the Pacific.

Kuata is apart of the Yasawa group of islands located Northwest of Nadi, Fiji. Credit: Brock Sivon

After arriving, we spent some time exploring the resort. There are many activities available, including snorkeling with sharks, night snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and much more. We enjoyed lunch at an oceanside restaurant while listening to live music and taking in the incredible scenery.

Views of the Kuata Island upon arrival. Credit: Brock Sivon

Nate and I then proceeded to go on a hike to one of the summits of the island. It only took about 25 minutes to get to the top, but was a fairly steep incline most of the way up. When we got to the top, there was breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

This mountain hike reminded me of our entire trip as a whole. Going into this trip I had some idea of what it would be like, but wasn’t sure what it would fully encompass. Likewise, going into the mountain hike I knew that we would be climbing up but didn’t know what we would see. As we got more settled in and began interacting with the people, land, and spiritual component, it was by no means easy and were challenged, but we learned day by day what it is like to live in the Pacific and how climate change is impacting the people living here. On the hike, it was a steep incline and somewhat challenging, but we were making progress towards our ultimate goal, the top.

Finally, from our experiences in Fiji and Tuvalu, we were integrated into everyday culture and experienced firsthand the beauty within the pacific as well as the struggles people face. It was such a privilege to experience what we did and learn from some of the most intelligent people in the world. Similarly, when we made it to the top of the mountain we were able to see the beauty around us after enduring struggles along the way. I spent time reflecting at the top of the mountain on such a surreal moment, but when it was time to head down I knew that more work was needed to be done in order to reach the bottom and to reach our climate justice goals in the future.

Breathtaking views from the summit. Credit: Brock Sivon

Ultimately, this experience has reminded me that our actions, whether big or small, can affect people across the world. The choices we make can have consequences for communities we may never even meet. They can also create opportunities for positive change. The people of Tuvalu and Fiji have shown me the importance of loving others as if they are one of your own

After the hike, everyone spent the rest of the afternoon doing their own thing. Some swam in the ocean, others kayaked, relaxed on the beach, or explored more of the island. We ended the day with a night snorkeling excursion, which was an incredible experience getting to see fish, sharks, sting rays, a squid, and much more. It was the perfect way to finish another unforgettable day in the Pacific.