Pita Taufatofua has been invited to speak at the United Nations’ Youth Dialogue next week in New York.
The Tongan-Australian based taekwondo practitioner and skier has welcomed the invitation on social media.
“Ive just been personally invited by the President of the United Nations to speak at the UN high level opening event. I pray to represent the Pacific and all those whose voices haven’t been heard with pride and strength!” he wrote on Facebook.
The one-day event on May 30 seeks to listen to the ideas, needs and concerns of young people on bridging education and skills training with employment in the 21st century, as well as on the prevention of radicalization.
The event further aims to galvanize the efforts of many global alliances and initiatives that are empowering young people.
In his letter on May 3 the President of the UN seventy-second session General Assembly H. E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák congratulated Taufatofua for the work he has been doing for young people and promoting the Pacific through culture, sport and philanthropy.
“Given our shared interest in youth empowerment, it is my pleasure to invite you to speak in the high level opening segment at 10am at the United Nations.”
Taufatofua has been in the spotlight since walking in the opening ceremony of the Rio Olympics all oiled up and muscles bulging. He repeated that for the Pyeongchang opening ceremony on February 9.