Youth Development Division Participates in FWC Youth Annual Conference

The Youth Development Division participated in the FWC Youth Annual Conference held on Saturday, 20 June 2026.

The Youth Development Division (YDD) continued to implement its June activities, focusing on community awareness programmes and the rollout of the Tonga National Youth Policy and Strategic Plan of Action 2026–2030.

As part of these efforts, YDD had the opportunity to participate in the Free Wesleyan Church (FWC) Youth Annual Conference, which commenced on Saturday, 19 June 2026. The FWC Youth Executive invited the Youth Development Division of the Ministry of Internal Affairs to take part in the afternoon programme as a panel member alongside representatives from two other organisations.

The Deputy CEO for Youth, Mrs. Sinama Fuao, was honoured to serve as the Guest of Honour for the afternoon programme. She also participated in the panel speakers, where she shared words of encouragement and insights with the young people in attendance. Her presentation highlighted youth profiles, youth statistics, and the needs and aspirations of young people as identified in the TNYP.

Mrs. Fuao emphasized the six key youth outcomes outlined in the TNYP, including:

• Health and well-being of young people’s body, mind, and spirit;
• Prevention of alcohol, drug abuse, and other forms of addiction;
• Youth employment and economic empowerment;
• Social protection and accountability for youth;
• Integration of youth issues into national development priorities like climate change
• Digital connectivity and privacy protection for youth.

She encouraged the youth to make positive choices, noting that the decisions they make today will help shape a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

The FWC Youth Executive expressed their appreciation for the presentation and the advocacy of the Tonga National Youth Policy. They welcomed the opportunity to learn more about youth development initiatives and expressed their interest in strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs in future youth programmes and activities.