JEREMY Gwao, a distinguished multimedia journalist from Solomon Islands, was recently selected to join a cohort of Pacific content creators in the Australia-led Pacific Climate Media and Traditional Knowledge project in Vanuatu.
This initiative, led by Australia through ABC International Development, aims to amplify climate storytelling and foster collaboration between Pacific nations and Australian First Nations communities.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, congratulated Mr Gwao, saying the project combines media skills with traditional knowledge to address the urgent issue of climate change.
“Australia’s commitment to meaningful action on climate change and to the media sector is evident in this project, which equips participants not only with technical skills but also with the platform to share important climate change and traditional knowledge stories,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“This partnership strengthens the bonds between Pacific nations and Australia, fostering a collaborative approach to tackling climate change and preserving cultural heritage.”
Mr Gwao was selected from a highly competitive pool of over 130 applicants from across the Pacific, along with other participants from Papua New Guinea, Nauru, Palau, and Vanuatu.
With his expertise in climate change and disability reporting, Mr Gwao brings valuable insight from Solomon Islands to the project.
His experience in film production and youth advocacy make him a strong voice for his community, spotlighting critical issues that affect the region.
The Pacific Climate Media and Traditional Knowledge project is a key part of Australia’s efforts to use digital media to bring Pacific climate and traditional knowledge stories to global audiences.
Participants receive ABC mobile journalism kits and take part in a weeklong training camp in Vanuatu, which focused on video storytelling.
Following their training in Vanuatu, Mr Gwao and his peers will be mentored by an ABC producer to create impactful social and digital content, which will be featured on ABC platforms.
Australia’s support for the Solomon Islands media sector is long standing, and extends to print, radio and online.
Source: Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands