Indigenous representation from Tonga at COP28

My name is Uili Lousi and I am the President of OHAI Tonga, a non-governmental organisation in the Kingdom of Tonga. OHAI Tonga is dedicated to addressing the adverse effects of climate change and promoting resilience and capacity in Tonga and the South Pacific. Our work focuses on advancing knowledge about the impact of climate change in Tonga and the Pacific, promoting food security, working with youth groups to address climate change related issues, responding to natural disasters, and celebrating Tonga's treasured culture and art.

I am also a Climate Change Ambassador for the Kingdom of Tonga and I have been asked to speak at COP28 Dubai on Indigenous issues arising from the impact of climate change including loss of culture and heritage. I represent the voice of the future children's children of the Pacific which must be heard in this international forum. This is the 7th COP I will be attending.

My objectives at COP28 are:

1. Attracting new forms of sustainable finance to the South Pacific

2. Profiling the culture and heritage of the region with a focus on ocean pollution, zero waste and a national circular economy

3. Platforming Indigenous knowledge and wisdom to mitigate climate crisis

But I need your support to get me there. I'm raising £5000 to support my travel to COP28 in Dubai between 30 Nov 2023 – 12 Dec 2023. My work is completely unpaid. I do not take a salary. I do this because I believe in a healthy and sustainable future for The Pacific.

The money will go directly towards funding my travel (Tonga - New Zealand - Dubai) and accommodation at the COP28 event in Dubai.

Malo 'aupito (Thank you).

For more details about OHAI Tonga please visit http://www.ohaitonga.org/