Being awarded the Member of the British Empire Medal from Queen Elizabeth in 2021 was undoubtedly a momentous occasion in my life. Today I had the humble honour of being bestowed the Medal by His Excellency, the Governor General, my Biology Teacher at KGVI, Sir David Vunagi. The honor bestowed upon me for my services to fisheries development in the Solomon Islands and the broader region filled me with a profound sense of gratitude and accomplishment. It was an acknowledgement of the years of dedication and hard work I had invested in promoting sustainable fisheries practices and fostering economic growth in the region but I am the first to acknowledge that it was a collective endeavour.
Standing before the Governor-General adorned with the medal, I couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had led me to that moment. My passion for marine conservation and the empowerment of local communities had taken from the Solomon Islands, where I had tirelessly worked alongside stakeholders to implement effective strategies for sustainable fisheries management. This recognition was a testament to the collaborative efforts of numerous individuals, organizations, and communities who had supported and believed in our shared vision.
However, the week leading up to the award ceremony presented a stark contrast to the joyous occasion. I found myself confronted with a difficult situation at the Solomon Islands National University, where I had to suspend five staff members for their involvement in corrupt practices. It was a painful and emotionally draining exercise. The revelation of such misconduct within the institution was deeply disheartening, and it brought to the forefront the challenges and complexities of promoting ethical behavior and accountability.
As I stood before the Governor-General, holding the award in my hands, the weight of these contrasting experiences weighed heavily on my mind. It reminded me of the dual nature of human endeavors—the potential for positive change and progress, but also the existence of darker forces that hinder growth and development. It was a reminder that our work is never complete, and we must remain vigilant in our efforts to combat corruption and promote integrity at all levels of society.
Receiving the MBE from Governor General was not just a personal achievement but also an opportunity to draw attention to the critical issues facing the Solomon Islands and the wider region. It served as a reminder that fisheries development should not solely focus on economic gains but also prioritize sustainability and community well-being. It was a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to redouble their efforts in supporting responsible fishing practices, protecting marine ecosystems, and empowering local communities.
In hindsight, the contrast between the award ceremony and the suspensions at the university served as a powerful reminder of the challenges inherent in the pursuit of progress. It highlighted the need for continuous introspection, accountability, and the willingness to confront and address issues that threaten the integrity of our work. The recognition bestowed upon me by Queen Elizabeth was not just a personal triumph but also a reminder of the responsibility I carry as a catalyst for positive change.
Moving forward, I am inspired to redouble my efforts in fostering sustainable fisheries development, empowering communities, and advocating for transparent governance. I recognize that the recognition I have received comes with great responsibility—a responsibility to lead by example, to confront corruption and unethical practices head-on, and to foster a culture of integrity in all that I do. The honor bestowed upon me by Queen Elizabeth serves as a constant reminder of the impact we can make when we strive for excellence and commit ourselves to the greater good.
By Dr Transform Aqorau
