About PAYA Podcast: The official podcast of the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA)
Welcome to the PAYA Podcast, where we celebrate the stories, cultures and dynamism of young people from the Pacific–Australia region.
In each episode, we dive into inspiring conversations with young leaders, changemakers and innovators who are shaping the future of our region. From sustainability to the opportunities of entrepreneurship and the richness of traditional cultures, we explore the stories from across our Blue Pacific.
The PAYA Podcast is an initiative of the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA). PAYA exists to connect, empower and equip young people across the Pacific and Australia through leadership development, cultural exchange and collaborative initiatives that build capacity, strengthen community and inspire service-oriented action.
Join us to discover unique perspectives, strengthen the bonds between our communities and build a better future together.
Subscribe now and join the PAYA family!
This episode was recorded live in the Republic of Naoero as part of a special collaboration between the Pacific-Australia Youth Association (PAYA) and the Global Institute for Leadership. PAYA President Dominic de Moura McCarthy talks with PAYA Naoero Branch Advisor Ankemwi Garoa about the experiences and values that have shaped his leadership journey.
Ankemwi reflects on growing up in Naoero with a passion for politics, history and culture, and on a career spanning government reporting, foreign service and cultural heritage work. From chairing the Summit Coordinating Committee behind the PAYA Youth Leadership Summit Naoero 2024 to representing Naoero at the Commonwealth Youth Summit and One Young World, he shares why investing in young dei-Naoero, safeguarding culture and building regional ties are essential to the future of our region.
The PAYA Podcast shares the stories, ideas and experiences of young leaders from across the Pacific-Australia region, highlighting the people and initiatives shaping the future of our communities through leadership, service and collaboration.
31 Jul 2026
PAYA Podcast – Iliganoa Feagaimaalii Soti Mapu
In this special collaboration between the Pacific-Australia Youth Association (PAYA) and the Global Institute for Leadership, PAYA President Dominic de Moura McCarthy sits down with PAYA Chief Communications Officer Iliganoa Feagaimaalii Soti Mapu, Miss Samoa 2025–2026, youth advocate and communications leader, to explore the experiences and values that have shaped her leadership journey.
Nai reflects on growing up in Samoa, studying her degree through the Australia Awards Scholarship, and returning home to serve her country through youth advocacy, communications and cultural representation. She also shares why investing in young Pacific leaders, preserving culture and strengthening regional collaboration are essential to the future of our region.
The PAYA Podcast shares the stories, ideas and experiences of young leaders from across the Pacific-Australia region, highlighting the people and initiatives shaping the future of our communities through leadership, service and collaboration.
23 Nov 2025
PAYA and EnglishEquip (Round 2!)
In this episode, PAYA sits down with two French-speaking Pacific Islanders for an inspiring conversation about the power of language in shaping opportunities for Pacific youth. We explore the challenges that French-speaking Pacific Islanders face when interacting with their Pacific cousins and discuss pathways for education, employment and global connection, while still honouring the richness of Pacific languages.
The discussion dives into real stories from our two guest speakers, the challenges they face when navigating multilingual spaces, and how confidence in communication can unlock leadership potential.
Whether you're a student, a young professional, or someone passionate about empowering Pacific youth, this episode offers practical insights, motivation, and a reminder that language is more than a skill, its a bridge to new possibilities.
23 Oct 2025
Empowering Voices: PAYA Meets EnglishEquip
In this month’s episode, we dive into an exciting collaboration between the Pacific-Australia Youth Association (PAYA) and EnglishEquip, an organisation supporting Pacific Islanders in building confidence and communication through English learning.
Tune in as we explore how EnglishEquip empowers youth to find their voice, connect across cultures, and open new opportunities for study and work in Australia and beyond. Our speakers unpack their experiences with learning a second language, growth, and what it means to express identity through language.
Whether you're passionate about education, cultural exchange, or youth empowerment — this episode will leave you inspired by the power of connection and communication.
16 Sept 2025
Celebrating 50 Years of PNG Independence
On this months episode, we are celebrating 50 years of Papua New Guinea's Independence!
We sit down with Annclan Kuk (PAYA's Chief People Officer) to hear her story, reflections and dream for PNG for the next 50 years of leadership and growth.
28 Aug 2025
Lave ʻIloa Ola‘s Story: A Bridge Between Our Islands
In this inspiring first episode of the PAYA Podcast, we sit down with Lave ‘Iloa Ola, also know as Sulieni Layt. A proud Australia-Tongan who has built connections across Australia, Tonga and the wider Pacific. From his role as a pastor to his many volunteer and leadership titles, including His Majesty's Chief Attendant, Suli shares how faith, service and community have shaped his journey. Hear how he navigates life between islands, uplifts youth and brings people together through culture, language and a shared vision for a stronger Pacific.
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