By: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau (Island Times) — “Young people must be active stakeholders in solutions now, not just in the future,” said Rengelekel Belau Director Mia Kuartei, as thenew youth organization prepares to host its first major event aimed at empowering Palauan youth to connect with their culture and environment.
Rengelekel Belau, inspired by the long-established Rubekul Belau Forum and Mechesil Belau Conference, was formed to fill the gap for a national youth platform addressing current issues, interests, and aspirations. Its mission is to empower young Palauans through events, development programs, and creative content that strengthen identity, skills, and leadership.
The organization’s vision centers on fostering a generation of confident, culturally grounded, and proactive youth. It aims to nurture creativity, resilience, and community collaboration through three focus areas: youth events, youth content, and youth development.
Its first major event, “Rengelekel Belau & Our Ocean,” will take place in Koror on November 29–30, 2025, inviting participants aged 18 to 24 to explore their identity and deep ties to the ocean. Sponsored by Conservation International, Palau Conservation Society, and One Reef, and supported by the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development (MHRCTD), the program will feature hands-on activities and open discussions.
“Our first event focuses on ‘Who are Rengelekel Belau?’” Kuartei said. “We want youth to deepen their understanding and connection to the ocean and foster a strong desire to protect it.”
Participants will explore Ngermiich, a natural habitat unfamiliar to many Palauans, as part of efforts to raise awareness of ocean conservation and stewardship. Kuartei emphasized that traditional values such as omekerreu, omengereomel, and omengedmokl — which reflect Palauans’ relationships with nature — are central to the program’s message.
“Traditional values are deeply connected to our natural resources,” she said. “We must blend these with modern ocean management to honor our identity and responsibilities.”
Following the two-day program, Rengelekel Belau plans to launch a project-based activity in January to support youth who wish to develop actionable community initiatives.
As Palau faces growing challenges from climate change, the organization hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders who are informed, engaged, and committed to protecting Palau’s environment and heritage.
“Events like this boost ocean literacy and empower youth to act,” Kuartei said.