Bethalyn Kelly, a 20-year-old advocate, has been honored with the title of Regional Winner for the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work 2025. Her motivating statement, “If we want change, we have to believe in ourselves,” reflects her dedication to empowering others, especially young women.
As the president of Resilience, Innovation, and Social Change—a club dedicated to supporting young women—Bethalyn considers this recognition not only a personal victory but also a chance to create a significant impact. In a touching interview with Tavuli News, she shared her feelings about receiving the award at Marlborough House, the headquarters of the Commonwealth Secretariat, admitting the emotional mix she felt. “I never thought this would happen, but now that it has, I’m so proud of my team for pushing beyond our boundaries to ensure that girls like us are also champions in our community,” she expressed.
Initially facing self-doubt, Bethalyn’s journey toward this accolade was fueled by encouragement from her family, including her older brother Bobby Siarani, and the unwavering support of her club members. She conveyed heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a role in her journey, notably her girls’ club for their significant influence.
Bethalyn’s aspirations extend beyond her success; she aims to inspire girls in the Solomon Islands to chase their dreams. Her innovative project targeting plastic waste reduction in Honiara’s Tuvaruhu community exemplifies her dedication to sustainability. By converting plastic PET bottles into eco-friendly bricks, she promotes responsible waste management and environmental conservation, aligning closely with Sustainable Development Goal 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards recognize young leaders worldwide, and Bethalyn’s achievement alongside finalist Ruby Riethmuller from Australia signifies a rising tide of youth activism tackling urgent issues, including environmental degradation and mental health.
Bethalyn’s final message to her peers was one of action and perseverance: “Stay active and dedicated to innovation in your community. You never know—one day, the experience I’ve had today could be yours.” Her journey is not just an inspiration for future leaders but also highlights the transformative impact of resilience and community support in enacting positive change.
Bethalyn Kelly’s narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that youth-led initiatives hold in addressing global challenges, encouraging a new generation of changemakers to rise and make their mark.
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