Leituala brings a wealth of experience of over 26 years and a proven track record in national, regional and international work. With a background in Social Development, Leituala is well-positioned to drive IUCN to new heights in the Oceania region. Since 2015, she has worked for the Pacific Community (SPC) in different positions, most recently as the Regional Director for Polynesia and with her new role, she is committed to IUCN’s mission and values.

Leituala takes on the leadership role from Maria-Goreti Muavesi who had been Acting Regional Director since May 2023. Maria now resumes her previous role as Head Environmental Legal Officer for IUCN Oceania.

“We are excited to welcome Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago to the IUCN Oceania family. She brings a unique blend of leadership, expertise and passion for our organisation’s mission. We believe that Leituala will play a pivotal role in advancing IUCN and furthering our impact in the Oceania region”, said Maria-Goreti Muavesi.

Leituala expressed enthusiasm about joining IUCN and shared her vision for the region.

“I’m pleased to be here today on my first day as your Regional Director, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of an amazing team, and the world’s largest, oldest and  most diverse environment organisation. Our success as a team is dependent on all of our individual successes, which means we each have a responsibility and a role to play in ensuring that we all succeed in what we do and that we will all win!”, said Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago.

IUCN is confident that under Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago’s leadership, the organisation will continue to strengthen its presence and make positive impact on vulnerable communities in the Oceania region.

In one of the most biodiverse regions of the world, where navigators are one with the Pacific Ocean, IUCN is assured that her leadership and dedication will contribute significantly to IUCN’s success and further achieve its mission to create a just world that values and conserves nature.

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Speech - Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago