Youth work in Fiji and the broader Pacific region is gaining increased attention, as advocates push for its recognition as both a professional and educational discipline. Broderick Mervyn, a youth and community practitioner, emphasizes the significant impact that youth work has in fostering leadership, values, and social cohesion, despite its relative obscurity compared to other education sectors.
Mervyn points out that the “Professionalising Youth Work in the Pacific Modules” initiative seeks to address this oversight by formalizing youth work as a structured, ethical, and pedagogical profession vital for national and regional development. He asserts that youth work should be viewed as a form of education that extends beyond traditional classroom settings, particularly for young individuals who may not thrive in conventional academic environments.
“The guidance that young people receive is not left to chance; it comes from trained educators and mentors well-versed in both academic principles and cultural responsibilities,” Mervyn states. He argues that by professionalizing youth work, the Pacific’s cultural traditions are not just preserved but are woven into the fabric of modern educational frameworks, integrating elements such as intergenerational leadership, storytelling, and communal responsibility.
Furthermore, Mervyn contends that officially recognizing youth work as an educational and cultural service elevates youth practitioners to a status comparable to that of teachers and public servants, positioning them as essential players in the nation-building process throughout Fiji and the Pacific. This recognition not only enhances civic engagement but also fosters social cohesion and ethical leadership, ultimately contributing to a brighter future for the region’s youth.