BACKThe Solomon Islands are home to a diverse array of beautiful flora and fauna, as well as a rich cultural heritage. 80% of Solomon Islanders rely on the land for their income and food, primarily through fishing and farming. Nine-year-old Polyne lives with her mum, her dad, and four siblings, who consider the Solomon Islands their home. Due to climate change, Polyne and her family have found it more difficult to gather food as the rising sea levels have flooded their crops. Additionally, the fluctuating weather patterns have led to more climate-related hazards occurring. This climate instability makes Polyne fear for her safety when she fishes. Polyne is like all children, as she loves to play football and volleyball. She loves the Solomon Islands; however, due to a lack of resources, she is afraid of losing her home. Polyne and other residents of the Solomon Islands deserve the same chance at survival as we do.
Polyne’s story is a key factor for this year’s World Vision 40-Hour Challenge. Her story inspired 100 students to sign up for the 40-Hour Challenge and give up something important to themselves for 40 hours. Many students challenged themselves to go 40 hours offline. Students disconnected from their phones and social media to support those in need in the Solomon Islands.
This year, an activation event was held where students were educated on the meaning of this year’s challenge. Additionally, there were multiple interactive games hosted in correlation with the 40-Hour Challenge. Many students gathered their friends to come to this event. The activation event alone led to 200 students signing up for the 40-Hour Challenge.
At the time of publication the students raised an incredible $17,448 for World Vision. The proceeds from this event will go towards supporting Polyne and improving the lives of communities in the Solomon Islands. If you would like to support this amazing effort you can donate here: https://fundraise.worldvision.org.nz/so/4210/8
