A group of Brigham Young University–Hawaii hospitality and tourism management (HTM) students recently took the world stage, presenting at a high-level side event of the United Nations General Assembly during its 80th anniversary session in New York City.
The invitation was made at the direct request of the Kiribati Mission to the UN, which has been following the students’ projects on Christmas Island with interest. Representing Kiribati under the theme Ana Karitoa te I-Kiribati (“the strength and dignity of our people”), seniors Temwake Kuraotio, Heidi Boraia Tangata, Tabware Manibwebwe, and Tebaiti Titabu shared their vision for the future of their island nation.
In front of more than 100 delegates from over 60 countries, the students spoke about resiliency, challenging the common narrative of Kiribati as a nation defined by tragedy and loss. Instead, they emphasized stories of strength, hope, and opportunity.
“There is more to us than a sinking nation,” said Manibwebwe. “Too often, Kiribati is portrayed only through the lens of crisis. I wanted the world to see that our people are resilient, creative, and full of dignity.”
Shaping the Future of Kiribati
The students highlighted five initiatives from Christmas Island that reflect their commitment to sustainable development:
- A national park proposal at Long Beach to address conservation and food security.
- A homestay program to build dignity and income within families.
- Surf tourism to attract low-impact, high-value visitors.
- A global rebranding campaign called “The First Sunrise.”
- Astro-tourism through Dark Sky Sanctuary certification.
Their message included a video created by Manu Tefan, a senior from French Polynesia, amplifying the presentation’s emotional impact.
Kuraotio said he felt the weight of representing his country. “It was not just about me standing there, but about carrying the voice of my country, especially the young people of Kiribati,” he said. “By sharing our projects, we showed the world that Kiribati is not only surviving, but that we are innovating and shaping our own future.”
Message of Resilience
For Heidi Boraia Tangata, the opportunity was a dream come true. “Standing before the delegates, I felt a mix of pride and gratitude,” she said. “From dreaming of our projects in a small classroom to presenting them at the United Nations, it was surreal to see our voices as young I-Kiribati students being heard on the world stage.”
Tebaiti Titabu, said the moment was full of emotions. “I was especially proud because it showed that the efforts of Aibwea Inc.—a student-run NGO led by Kiribati students—are being recognized,” he said. “Representing both my country and BYU–Hawaii on the world stage was an unforgettable honor.”
Manibwebwe said the audience’s reaction was unforgettable. “The moment that stood out most was when I looked into the crowd and saw leaders and delegates leaning in and truly listening,” she said. “It reminded me that the voices of students and children of small islands matter, and that our message of resilience can resonate on the world stage.”
International Recognition
Delegates were moved by the students’ delivery, with several asking how BYU–Hawaii prepares young people to speak with such confidence and conviction. The Kiribati director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Immigration, Tearinaki Patiale Tanielu, remarked afterward that he felt something during the presentation and asked if that was what members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints call the Holy Spirit, to which the students confirmed “yes.”
Baron Waqa, the secretary general to the Pacific Islands commended the students, and his excellency Taneti Maamau, the president of Kiribati, invited them to a private reception alongside ministers and ambassadors. For many, it was the first time they had met their nation’s leader. At the reception, the students presented the president with a makaʻala (fish hook), symbolizing prosperity, sacrifice, and service.
Kuraotio said the recognition gave him confidence for the future. “To receive praise from leaders I’ve only ever seen on TV was surreal,” he said. “It made me realize that the ideas of young people from small nations can be heard and respected at the highest levels.”
“Hard Work Come to Fruition”
Jeff Christensen, director of the Center for Hospitality & Tourism at BYU–Hawaii, said the experience was a milestone for both the students and the university.
“For me personally, this was a highlight of my career. Seeing two years of hard work come to fruition in such an extraordinary way,” Christensen said. “This reflects President David O. McKay’s prophetic vision of BYU–Hawaii as a place where students from the Pacific would go forth to bless their nations as ambassadors of peace.”