Tell us about yourself and what you do?

I work with 350.org, an organisation that is building a global grassroots movement to take on the fossil fuel industry and big polluters the world over. In my role as the Head of Regions, I oversee work in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Pacific. I also serve on the Pacific Climate Warriors Secretariat and support Pacific Climate advocacy across 16 Pacific Island nations and diaspora communities in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.  I am passionate about storytelling, photography and filmmaking. I also identify as a climate justice movement trainer and facilitator. I have taken those passions, combined them with my love for podcasting, and created my own podcast, Beyond The Narrative. I am also currently a Nia Tero Storytelling Fellow.

What do you consider the most difficult aspect of your job and how do you overcome it?

There is a lot happening in the world right now with climate impacts, war, loss, grief and often times acknowledging that can be difficult. To overcome that, I often have to honor what is and do the work to reconfigure my relationship to the future I hold some fear around. Our brains and hearts are not well equipped for uncertainty so when I begin to go down a rabbit hole I remind myself that its OK to recognise these feelings, honor what it is and how it feels in my body, and answer the call to rest- to take a pause, to breathe and find joy in the world we are all stewarding right now. A beautiful sunrise, an empty beach, the perfect roti parcel from a takeout in Suva, a fresh ‘bu’ (coconut water) on the side of the road, a hug from a family member, and a deep conversation with a friend. All of these things generate such positive emotions and it’s important to be reminded of all that when I’m faced with any difficulties with my job and outside of my work as well. Counting the blessings of the little things have been so great with navigating challenges. 

Best piece of advice that you live by?

Staying consistent with whatever somatic practice aligns with your lifestyle. Dedicate time in your mornings to plan out your workday – pay attention to how you steward resources. Let every dollar you’ve been blessed with have a job in your life.

How has coworking at Greenhouse been for you?

Having this space has made such a huge difference. The team at Greenhouse really has been intentional with building out a community around this space and you really do feel like you are coming into a space that is welcoming and generative. I work 3 days a week from here and it’s helped me tremendously! From the private zoom rooms to the open space where the shared desks exist, to the outside decking. Each corner of the coworking space strikes the tricky balance of being fit for purpose and versatile! Its a welcome alternative to the traditional ways of working that exist in our societies.