Climate change is a very serious concern and I am already an activist.

Selai Ravaki from Seaqaqa Central College and Xavier College student Seremaia Naisua made this statement after they received the distinction award for writing an essay on climate change.

The essay competition was organized by the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji.

Ravaki says her home was severely damaged during Cyclone Winston in Nakavika Village in Seaqaqa.

Naisua, on the other hand, says young people need to take the stand and not for people in power to advocate for climate change, rather they need to take the steps themselves.

Both the winners won a laptop and $500 each.

In their essay, both highlighted how young people can contribute positively to their communities and raise awareness on the changing climatic conditions.