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OUR
TEAM

Responsible for driving our regional policy work, the PICAN team strives to support nodes and members in their work and coordinate efforts at the regional level.

Our Board.

The PICAN Board is essential in steering our organisational strategy and governance efforts, ensuring that the diverse perspectives of our country nodes and regional partners are inculcated on our operations.

 

Comprising representatives from each country node, one representative from our regional partners, along with independent experts with specialised skills, the Board provides vital oversight and direction, guiding our collective mission to empower Pacific communities and enhance our impact in the fight against climate change.

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Lavetanalagi Seru

Board Chair

Independent Seat

(📍 - Fiji)

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Pritika Kumari

Board Treasurer

Independent Seat

(📍 - Fiji)

Pelenise Alofa

Pelenise Alofa

Board Member

Kiribati Climate Action Network Rep.

(📍 - Kiribati)

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Vacant

Board Member

Vanuatu Climate Action Network Rep.

(📍 - Vanuatu)

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Patricia Chand

Board Member

Independent Seat

(📍 - Fiji)

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Johnston Riven

Board Vice Chair

Independent Seat

(📍 - Papua New Guinea)

Talafou Esekia

Talafou Esekia

Board Member

Tuvalu Climate Action Network Rep.

(📍 - Tuvalu)

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Jamal Namo

Board Member

Solomon Islands Climate Action Network Rep.

(📍 - Solomon Islands)

Rae Bainteiti

Rae Bainteiti

Board Member

Regional Member Rep.

(📍 - Fiji)

Our Secretariat.

The PICAN Secretariat is the engine room of our regional efforts, playing a pivotal role in the coordination and execution of our mission.  Our dedicated team works tirelessly to support our national nodes and members, driving impactful work at the regional level.

By convening thematic working groups and providing comprehensive policy, technical, and communications support, we ensure that innovative ideas and effective strategies are shared and implemented across the region.

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Rufino Varea, PhD

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Director

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Sindra Sharma, PhD

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International Policy Lead

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Benjamin Rabici

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Finance and Grants Officer

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Veronica Nauqe

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Executive Administrator

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James Viernes, PhD

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Principal Advisor, Strategy and Regional Affairs

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Dylan Kava

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Strategic Communications Lead

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Talei Gadekilakeba

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Strategic Engagement Officer

Join the PICAN Mailing List

Stay connected with PICAN and join a community dedicated to climate action across the Pacific. By signing up for our mailing list, you’ll receive the latest news, updates on regional and international climate initiatives, event invitations, and opportunities to get involved. Be part of the movement for a resilient and just future for the Pacific—register now to stay informed and engaged!

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The Pacific Islands Climate Action Network (PICAN) is a regional network of civil society organizations working on climate change issues in the Pacific Islands region.  

With four established national nodes and more than 190 member organisations throughout the region,  PICAN works to empower  Pacific Island communities and their leaders to be active players in the global climate change arena.

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© 2026 by Pacific Islands Climate Action Network - PICAN

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