Laurie O’Neal Singh, a 35-year-old student from Fiji, has made history by becoming the first Pacific Islander to receive the prestigious Elspeth Young Prize for Social Contribution from the Australian National University (ANU) in 2025. This esteemed award recognizes the significant contributions of students within ANU’s development and environment community, and Singh is among just five individuals honored in this year’s graduating cohort.
Raised in Suva and embodying both Indo-Fijian and iTaukei heritage, with family ties to Cicia in Lau, Singh expressed his surprise and gratitude at receiving this recognition. “Reflecting on the long nights of study, the challenges of being away from home, and the unwavering support from my wife, my two young daughters, and my parents who have guided me through this journey was incredibly special,” he stated. His distinction as the sole Pacific student among the prize-winners reinforces the idea that individuals from small island nations can excel in globally recognized institutions.
Singh’s career has primarily focused on civil service, encompassing roles in national planning, budgeting, climate finance, and developmental strategy. Currently, he holds the position of Principal Planning Officer in the Ministry of National Planning, Development, and Statistics. “Climate change is a daily reality in Fiji, and my experiences in the Ministry of Finance have underscored its profound impact on families and communities,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for linking global climate policy with the realities faced by Pacific peoples.
Singh pursued his studies at the Crawford School with the goal of enhancing his development planning skills, hoping that his success will inspire young Pacific Islanders to engage in global policy realms. “My hope is that this achievement demonstrates to Pacific students that their dreams are valid and that their voices have a place in the highest echelons of global learning and policy,” he added.
While the official handover of the prize has taken place, the graduation ceremony for this cohort is scheduled for February at the university, marking a significant milestone in Singh’s academic journey and an inspiring moment for the Pacific community.
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