Laurie O’Neal Singh, a 35-year-old student from Fiji, has made history by becoming the only Pacific Islander to receive the prestigious Elspeth Young Prize for Social Contribution from the Australian National University (ANU) for the year 2025. This award recognizes significant impact within ANU’s development and environment community, with Singh being one of just five recipients among this year’s graduating class.
Hailing from Suva and of both Indo-Fijian and iTaukei ancestry with maternal connections to Cicia in Lau, Singh expressed his gratitude for the recognition, which he described as an unexpected honor. Reflecting on his journey, he stated, “I thought of the long nights of study, the challenges of being away from home, and the constant support from my wife, my two young daughters, and parents who carried me through this journey.” He further emphasized the importance of his achievement, noting that it serves as a reminder that someone from a small island nation can excel in a globally recognized institution.
Singh’s career has primarily been in civil service, focusing on national planning, budgeting, climate finance, and long-term development strategies. Currently, he holds the position of Principal Planning Officer in the Ministry of National Planning, Development and Statistics. He underscored the pressing reality of climate change in Fiji and how his experiences in the Ministry of Finance have highlighted its profound effects on families and communities. His work on the National Development Plan revealed the disconnect between global climate policy and the lived experiences of Pacific nations.
Opting to study at the Crawford School, Singh aimed to enhance his skills in development planning and hopes his success will inspire young Pacific individuals to seek opportunities in global policy arenas. He stated, “My hope is that this shows Pacific students that their dreams are valid and that their voices belong in the highest levels of global learning and policy.”
While the official award ceremony has taken place, the graduation for the cohort is scheduled for February at the university, marking a significant milestone in Singh’s remarkable journey. His story is a beacon of hope for aspiring students from the Pacific, highlighting that dedication and resilience can lead to remarkable achievements on the global stage.