BYF Extends Heartfelt Thanks Following a Successful International Youth Day Pre-Celebration and Tukana Film Screening

The Bougainville Youth Federation (BYF) extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the International Youth Day (IYD) 2026 Pre-Celebration and Tukana Film Screening, held on 1 August 2026 in Arawa.

Celebrated under the global theme "Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future," the event brought together young people, government representatives, development partners, civil society organizations, community leaders, churches, and the wider public to celebrate the vital role of youth in shaping Bougainville's future.

The morning celebration highlighted the leadership, creativity, and potential of Bougainville's youth, while the afternoon screening of Tukana provided a meaningful opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and cultural connection.

Recognizing Our Valued Supporters

BYF extends its deepest gratitude to our sponsors and partners whose generous support made this event possible.

We sincerely thank DFAT and MFAT through Bougainville Partnerships for their continued investment in youth development and community initiatives across Bougainville. Your partnership continues to strengthen opportunities for young people to lead, participate, and contribute to sustainable development.

We also express our heartfelt appreciation to Lloyds Metal & Energy Limited for your generous support of this event. Your contribution reflects a strong commitment to empowering young people and supporting initiatives that bring communities together.

Our sincere thanks also go to the Autonomous Bougainville Government's Community Development Department and the Parliamentary Services Department for their ongoing collaboration and support. Your partnership continues to strengthen youth participation and development throughout Bougainville.

BYF is equally grateful to BACTA for partnering with us in making this celebration possible and for supporting opportunities that promote youth engagement, culture, and community participation.

A special acknowledgement goes to NFI for giving the Tukana film back to the people of Bougainville. By making this important film accessible once again, you have helped preserve and share a powerful story that celebrates Bougainville's history, identity, resilience, and culture. The screening was a meaningful highlight of the day, allowing many—especially young people—to reconnect with an important part of our shared heritage.

Appreciation for Our Security Personnel

The Bougainville Youth Federation (BYF) also extends its sincere appreciation to the Arawa BPS and the Arawa Town Rangers for the outstanding security they provided throughout the International Youth Day Pre-Celebration and the evening Tukana film screening.

Your professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment allowed participants, families, and community members to fully enjoy the day's activities with confidence and peace of mind. Your presence was instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone could celebrate and experience the film safely.

BYF is truly grateful for your dedicated service and continued support in helping make this event a safe, successful, and memorable occasion for the people of Bougainville.

Thank You to Our Volunteers

To our dedicated volunteers, thank you for your commitment, enthusiasm, and countless hours of service. Whether you assisted with planning, logistics, registration, media, or event coordination, your efforts ensured the celebration ran smoothly from start to finish.

Your willingness to serve demonstrates the true spirit of volunteerism and community leadership.

Thank You to Our Participants

To every youths, Arawa Secondary School students, guest speakers, performers, community leaders, and member of the public who joined us, thank you for making this celebration memorable.

Your participation, energy, and engagement created an atmosphere of unity, learning, and celebration. The meaningful discussions, performances, and the Tukana film screening reminded us the important role that young people play in preserving our culture while shaping Bougainville's future.

Looking Ahead

The success of the International Youth Day 2026 Pre-Celebration reflects what can be achieved through strong partnerships, community collaboration, and a shared commitment to empowering young people.

The Bougainville Youth Federation remains committed to creating opportunities that develop youth leadership, encourage active citizenship, strengthen cultural identity, and inspire the next generation to become agents of positive change.

To every sponsor, partner, volunteer, participant, and supporter—thank you. Your encouragement and generosity continue to strengthen our work and inspire us to build a brighter future for the young people of Bougainville.

Guest Speakers of International Youth Day Pre-celebration

Arawa Secondary Students and Youth Leaders after peace March.

Community watching BVX Videos while technical team set-up for Tukana Film Screening

Tukana Film Screening-Arawa