Master of Emergency and Disaster Management
Charles Darwin University
Marika is passionate about relieving human suffering during times of emergency in Tonga. As a Disaster Manager for Tonga Red Cross Society, she saw first-hand the impacts of climate change, natural disaster, and the COVID-19 pandemic on her community. Motivated to promote disaster resilience in Tonga upon completion of her studies, Marika intends to build the capacity of the Village Emergency Management Community to take the lead in responding to and protecting the people of Tonga during emergencies. She sees this as a vital step to build the resilience of Tonga, which is prone to the negative impacts of climate change.
Marika hopes the skills, knowledge and connections she develops while on the Women’s Developmental Leadership Program will inspire women in Tonga to stand up to make positive change. She has earned her Certificate IV in Resilience from The University of the South Pacific and was the recipient of the Australia Awards Pacific scholarship to complete her Bachelor in Environmental Management and Society (Pathway) at the same university.
