Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke Appointed as UNICEF Pacific Ambassador

Former Miss Samoa and Miss Pacific Islands joins UNICEF in championing children’s rights across the region

Suva, Fiji / Apia, Samoa – 13 May 2025
UNICEF Pacific has officially named Samoan climate activist and former Miss Pacific Islands, Moemoana Safa’ato’a Schwenke, as its new Pacific Ambassador.

The announcement was made during the Pacific Early Childhood Development Forum, following a two-day visit by Moemoana to UNICEF-supported programmes in Samoa. During her visit, she engaged with children, families, health workers and educators, witnessing firsthand the importance of community-led efforts in protecting children’s wellbeing.

“I am deeply humbled to accept this appointment as UNICEF’s Pacific Ambassador. This is a continued commitment to what I believe is the soul of our region: our children,” said Moemoana. “I offer myself fully to the work ahead, grounded in uplifting the needs, dreams and voices of our children and young people across our Blue Pacific Continent. I have met thousands of children across the Pacific in all the beautifully diverse parts of our region and they have been my inspiration.”

As UNICEF Pacific Ambassador, Moemoana will advocate for children’s rights across the region, focusing on key areas such as quality education, healthcare, nutrition, clean water, sanitation and child protection. She will also use her platform to amplify the voices of young people, particularly in vulnerable and remote communities.

Describing herself as a “custodian of Pacific environment, culture and people,” the 24-year-old is known for her work in creative and performing arts, especially siva afi (fire-knife dancing), as well as her passionate advocacy on the climate crisis. She previously delivered a speech on climate change at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) and participated in COP28.

UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch welcomed the appointment: “We are so excited to welcome Moemoana into the UNICEF family. Her dedication to preserving cultural values, art, and beliefs will inspire families to weave child rights into their traditions – through dance, song and storytelling, deeply rooted in the Pacific’s rich heritage.”

While visiting Savai’i Island in Samoa, Moemoana observed early childhood development and health initiatives and spoke of the power of community partnerships.

“True progress happens when communities lead, supported by partnerships that listen, respect and empower,” she said.

Moemoana joins fellow UNICEF Pacific Ambassadors Pita Taufatofua and Gladys Habu, continuing a growing movement of Pacific leaders committed to ensuring every child is seen, heard, and protected.