PORT VILA, 26 July: Aseri Esther Tinai, an eighth-grade student at Seaside Presbyterian Community School in Port Vila, captured hearts with her exceptional poetry at the Children’s Day celebration held this week at Saralana Park.
Her poem, titled "Climate Change," not only won her a school competition but also provided her with the opportunity to perform at the event.
Originally from Nalalawa village, Ra Province in Fiji, Aseri and her family relocated to Vanuatu when her father, Niko Droto, began working with Air Vanuatu as a pilot and later with the Vanuatu Civil Aviation Authority.
Aseri, the second-born of four siblings—all of whom attend Seaside Presbyterian Community School has made a remarkable impression with her creative talents.
13 years old and speaking fluent in Bislama after spending almost 5 years in Vanuatu, Aseri was both surprised and delighted to win the competition, which was announced during a school assembly.
Her choice to address climate change in her poem reflects her concern for a pressing global issue that impacts everyone today and will continue to do so in the future. Her aspiration to become a journalist is evident in her desire to use her poetry to shed light on critical issues.
Her mother, Miliana Vivita, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s achievements. Miliana describes Aseri as smart, hardworking, and a young woman with a passion for cooking, swimming, and continuous learning. She is particularly thrilled that Aseri was chosen to present her poem at the Children’s Day celebration.
Aseri’s performance on stage deeply moved the audience, including Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, who was in attendance as a guest speaker.
The Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) lauded Aseri’s poem for its alignment with this year's Children’s Day theme: “Our actions and talks can shape the children of Vanuatu in a changing world.”
Aseri Esther Tinai’s success stands as a testament to the impactful contributions young people can make through their talents and dedication. Her story is a powerful reminder of how the voices of the youth can influence and inspire positive change in the world.