Youth Shine in the Community Through Conservation and Learning

Posted on March, 19 2026

Western Province of the Solomion Islands is known for its turquoise lagoons, mangrove lined coastlines, and some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems. It is also home to communities whose lives are closely tied to the sea.

By Henry Kaniki

Western Province, Solomon Islands - Western Province of the Solomion Islands is known for its turquoise lagoons, mangrove lined coastlines, and some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems. It is also home to communities whose lives are closely tied to the sea. Family networks, cultural traditions, and community governance guide how people care for their lands and waters. In these island communities, youth are especially important because they will become the future custodians of fisheries, forests, and coastal resources. Their leadership is vital as the province faces the pressures of climate change and increasing resource use.

It was in this setting that four young rangers took a significant step in early 2025. With support from the WWF-Solomon Islands office, they left their villages to pursue a Certificate in Environmental Studies at the Solomon Islands National University. When they returned at the end of the year, they brought new knowledge, practical skills, and a strong desire to contribute to conservation in their home communities.

Since graduating, the youth interns have continued to receive mentoring from WWF. Their placements help them gain practical experience, strengthen their leadership abilities, and grow more confident in engaging with communities.

From 9 to 14 February 2026, the interns joined a field team led by WWF staff member Kent Sotutu for a visit to Pusiju and Koqulavata. The trip was supported by the United Kingdom International Development Fund through the Climate Action for Resilience Asia (CARA) programme. The nine-month Community Resilience and Nature-based Solutions Project is implemented by WWF-Pacific, including the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea offices.

Youth Learning Through Practice

For the interns, the visit was an opportunity to apply what they had learned in class. They supported monitoring of the Community Pathway Project, which promotes alternative livelihoods that rely on Nature-based Solutions, including sustainable seagrape management. They also assisted with the construction of Mini Solar Fishery Centres that will help families preserve fish and improve access to local markets.

For youth intern Alpha Gelly, the trip was a meaningful milestone. It was his first field assignment since completing his studies. “This trip really built my confidence,” he shared. “I feel more ready to take on leadership roles and support Community Based Fisheries Management in my area.” He added that community members feel positive about completing the project within the next six weeks.

Fellow intern Vannessa Billy, from Boboe community, saw how the presence of WWF helped uplift both villages. “People were really encouraged,” she said. She noted that Pusiju and Koqulavata have strong governance structures, which makes it easier for leaders to plan and deliver activities. She hopes to take her new learning back home.

Communities Driving Their Own Progress

Commitment among community members was strong across both sites. WWF conservation intern Kent Sotutu explained that fishery committee chairmen and builders gave positive feedback about the progress so far and expressed confidence in the next stages of work.

In Pusiju, project chairman Harrison Siala shared that regular visits from WWF help maintain momentum. He explained that the new fishery centre will serve as a storage facility to keep fish fresh before they reach local markets, which will benefit both Koqulavata and neighbouring communities.

Women in Koqulavata are also playing an active role. Women’s representative Zaidyn Kasa said the project directly supports women and girls, particularly through savings clubs. She added that women are helping by providing food for the construction team, showing their commitment to improving household wellbeing and community livelihoods.

Growing Into Leadership

Several interns noted that this was their first real field experience. They helped conduct surveys, collected monitoring information, interviewed community members, and observed how strong governance helps keep projects on track. One intern described the visit as a turning point because it helped him speak more confidently with elders and understand community priorities.

Looking Ahead

The project is scheduled for handover to both communities by the end of March 2026. Until then, the WWF-Solomon Islands team will continue working closely with committees to ensure timely completion of remaining activities.

Across Western Province, where community life and nature are deeply connected, this initiative is showing how youth empowerment, strong local leadership, and Nature Based Solutions can strengthen resilience and support sustainable livelihoods. These young conservationists are beginning to play an important role in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for their communities.

This story has been edited with AI assistance and reviewed by members of the Communications team

Field work at Koqulavata community.

WWF-SI Youth interns in the field.

WWF-SI interns travelling to communities.

Alpha Gelly during an awareness session at Koqulavata community.