Cook Island Youth Vibrance Takes Center Stage

Joshah Ruta Honoured with Youth Award at Tu Rangatira Awards Evening,

Kicking off Te Maeva Nui Festival

In a celebration pulsating with vibrant Pacific colours and rhythms, the Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF) proudly presented the Youth Award at the Tu Rangatira Awards Evening at the Trusts Arena in Henderson, Auckland, where the heart of the Pacific beat fervently, echoing the rich culture and traditions of the Cook Islands.

 The spotlight shone brightly on Joshah Ruta, a rising star whose passion and dedication to his community and culture made him a natural choice for this prestigious award.

The Youth Award sponsored by the Pacific Cooperation Foundation serves as a testament to Joshah's commitment to preserving and promoting the vibrant culture of the Pacific.

 “Here at Pacific Cooperation Foundation, we are committed to strengthening identity, deepening relationships, and amplifying voices within our Pacific community.  Our strength as a Pacific community lies in our ability to empower our youth. The Youth Awards perfectly align with these aspiration and congratulations go out to the nominees and the winner for then represent the hope, the promise and the resilience of our Pacific heritage” said Joanna Bourke, CEO for Pacific Cooperation Foundation.

 The Tu Rangatira Awards Evening was a great display of Pacific talent and unity, reflecting the very essence of Te Maeva Nui. It marked the grand opening of this year's Te Maeva Nui festival, an event that encapsulates the Cook Islands' exuberance and cultural richness. Throughout the festival attendees can immerse themselves in the drums and rhythms, indulge in the food at the kapa markets, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Cook Islands.

 As Te Maeva Nui kicks off at Trusts Arena in Henderson, Auckland, we invite everyone to join us. This festival is a vibrant showcase of the Cook Islands' traditions, where the soul of the Pacific comes alive.