MISS SICAN (Solomon Islands Climate Action Network), Azarinnah Zolela Stevens has demonstrated a deep sense of motivation in her advocacy on the issue of Climate Change in the Climate Justice Show Charity Fundraiser at the Pacific Crown Hotel in Honiara on Saturday.
Miss SICAN, who is Contestant #4 in the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) 2024, in an interview with Solomon Star talked about how the show can inspire each attendant to leave with the thought that climate change is real in the country.
“We see it happening every day, but we have no power to stop it. The only thing we can do is to reduce it.
“Since we are a small island nation, we don’t have that much of a bigger or powerful voice and so I hope that after this show, each one goes back with the feeling and thought that climate change is actually real,” the 20-year-old said.
With the fact that the Climate Justice Show is the first of its kind in the country, which brought not only SICAN, but the National Government under the Climate Change Division of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Disaster Management (MECDM), NGO partners and donors, Miss SICAN hopes that this will be the start of a journey forward for us to work together to fight with the goal of climate resilience and climate justice because together, holding hands, we are stronger.
When asked why she thinks she should be accorded the title: Miss Solomon Islands 2024-2025, Miss SICAN said that during her journey in the MSIP campaign, she realized that for SICAN’s work to reach and get a wider audience as far as the whole Pacific, she has to get the crown.
“It is through the title that we will attract and create more collaboration and partners.
“I believe all of us, six contestants have our own advocacies and everyone is a winner but the main reason why I think I should be crowned the title is so I can get a bigger audience and collaboration so we can fight climate change together.
“I am doing this for my islands and my people, especially those in the rural areas I grew up seeing and I’m still seeing that climate change is affecting our environment,” she said.
Miss SICAN, in her welcome remarks, said that for her to fight climate change is not a choice but a responsibility.
She added that Solomon Islands are on the frontline of climate change and every day its citizens face the reality of rising seas, eroding coastlines, and increasing unpredictable weather.
“I have seen first-hand impacts in our communities, our homes, our food sources, and our cultural heritage are all at risk. This is not a distant threat. It is happening now and it is personal.
“But tonight, I’m filled with hope that together we can amplify our voices and push for the changes that are desperately needed, in the hope that we can inspire others to join us in this fight, to stand for the Solomon Islands and to protect the future our children and their children.
“As we enjoy the performances and discussions tonight, I want you to remember why you are here, why we are here. Let this be a reminder that each one of us has a role to play and that together we are stronger,” Miss SICAN said.
She said that the fight for climate change does not end with the show but a journey that must be continued with determination and with love for our islands.
Miss SICAN added may the show will not a celebration, but a call to action. Together we can and we will achieve climate justice for the Solomon Islands!
The Climate Justice Show was featured by a video presentation, an art presentation and performances highlighting stories of challenges faced by remote communities in the country from climate change and stories of resilience and adaptation.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
Ms Azarinnah Zolela Stevens welcoming a guest to the event
