The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) has successfully kicked off its Talanoa Series, an innovative initiative that has quickly become a cornerstone for collaborative dialogue and knowledge-sharing in within the Regional Pacific NDC Hub.
Commencing on November 1st, 2023, the Talanoa Series was conceived as a response to the critical need for a platform that transcends conventional boundaries, fostering open dialogue and knowledge exchange. The series embarked on its journey with an inaugural talk on the Carbon Market, unraveling the complexities of sustainable practices and setting the stage for a shared understanding of environmental challenges.
Event organiser, Sadie Tunaulu said that the Talanoa Series has exceeded her expectations in fostering a culture of open dialogue and knowledge-sharing. “Witnessing the impact of these discussions on our participants has been truly inspiring. The success of the series lies in the collective commitment to building a sustainable future through shared understanding." She added.
Building on the success of the Carbon Market discussion, the Talanoa Series delved into critical topics such as Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI) in Climate Change on November 9th, highlighting the importance of diverse voices in shaping climate action. Subsequently, on November 20th, the series explored the complex issue of Loss and Damage, sparking profound conversations on the real-world impacts of climate change and the collective responsibility we share.
One of the hallmark features of the Talanoa Series is its deliberately informal atmosphere. Sessions were designed to be a safe space where both technical and non-technical staff can actively participate, ask questions, and contribute to discussions without hesitation. This inclusive approach has become a cornerstone of the series, creating an environment where every voice is heard and valued.
Enriched by the expertise of the SPC technical team, the Talanoa Series ensures that discussions are grounded in sound knowledge and experience. The series occasionally features invited speakers, bringing fresh perspectives and diverse insights to the forefront. This blend of internal and external expertise ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded exploration of each topic.
“Being a part of the Talanoa Series has been an enriching experience. Presenting on complex topics like Mitigation and Loss and Damage has allowed us to break down technical information into accessible insights for a broader audience. The informal setting empowers us to connect with participants on a personal level” Amit Singh, Project Development Specialist.
As the year draws to a close, anticipation is building for the upcoming Talanoa Series session on COP 28. The team that attended the event in Dubai will share their experiences and insights on December 20th, providing a unique glimpse into one of the most significant climate conferences globally.
"Joining the Talanoa Series has been an eye-opening experience for me. The informal atmosphere created a space where I felt encouraged to ask questions and contribute to discussions. The sessions provided a deeper understanding of the issues we face, and the diversity of perspectives presented has broadened my awareness.” Sagaitu Konusi, Climate Change Mitigation advisor.
Excitement is already in the air as SPC promises more thrilling Talanoa sessions in 2024. The series has not only become a knowledge-sharing platform but a movement, inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of collective responsibility among participants.
In conclusion, the Talanoa Series by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and collaboration in addressing the complex challenges of our time. By providing a platform for open conversation and knowledge sharing, SPC is actively contributing to a more sustainable and interconnected future for the Pacific region and beyond.
