The 3rd National Symposium of Fiji's highlight was the focus on the grassroots’ leading role in environmental sustainability, enabling communities by providing impetus to innovate, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable development.

The 3rd National Symposium of Community-Led Initiatives on Environmental Sustainability was launched at the Jovili Meo Mission Centre, Pasifika Communities University and community chiefs, practitioners, and partners gathered with the theme of "Share Your Stories."

Under the partnership of the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) Fiji with WWF Pacific and cChange Pacific, the symposium features the highlight of grassroots projects in promoting the agenda of environmental sustainability in Fiji.

UNDP Pacific Deputy Resident Representative Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov stated that Pacific communities are major agents of change, and that the unique characteristics of grassroots solutions rooted in culture and tradition play a significant role in policy formulation. When investing in communities, he said, "We invest in solutions that are long-term."

Alfred Ralifo of WWF emphasized the necessity of Indigenous Peoples and local populations as biodiversity curators to be more involved in the environmental sustainability practice.

Authority voices such as women, youth, and indigenous leaders reflected stories of resilience and innovations such as women-dominated businesses in Suva and youth-dominated calls that combined new knowledge with traditional knowledge. Waste management policies and a national outcome statement will also be discussed at the symposium to be offered to the Government of Fiji.

The event supports the idea that enhancing grassroots leadership is essential for environmental sustainability, as it empowers communities to take charge, collaborate, and develop larger solutions for a sustainable future.