Rebecca Thomas, Auckland University

Rebecca’s research topic: Climate Mobility, Adaptation and Community Resilience in Fiji. Findings from the villages of Galoa and Yadua

“My Master’s research explored climate mobility in the Fijian villages of Galoa and Yadua. Using the Fijian Vanua Research Framework and participatory visual methods, including Photovoice, mobility mapping and creative artworks, I examined how communities understand environmental change and make decisions about staying, moving temporarily, or relocating. It found that attachment to Vanua (land, people, ancestry, obligation and belonging), gendered resilience and everyday micro-mobilities shaped climate adaptation in ways often overlooked by relocation-focused policy. Fieldwork in Fiji was relational and reciprocal, highlighting the value of community-led, culturally grounded approaches to Pacific climate mobility research and adaptation planning.“

REBECCA THOMAS| MASTER OF ARTS IN DEVELOPMENT STUDIES |WAIPAPA TAUMATA RAU – UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND.