Isabella Patrick, a graduate of Massey University, and a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism, is set to embark on an exciting role with the Samoa Tourism Authority in March. As a Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) volunteer, her primary role will be advising her colleagues on accessing international funding to reshape their tourism strategies to combat climate change.
Isabella’s connection with Samoa goes beyond professional interest; she has always been fascinated by Samoan culture. Her journey took a significant turn when she spent five weeks in Samoa for fieldwork research in July, an opportunity facilitated by a DevNet and a Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Field Research Award. During her stay, she fell in love with Samoa and its cultural richness.
Her expertise in climate financing stems from her master’s thesis, where she focused on researching climate financing for Samoa’s sustainable tourism development. Recognising her skills, the local VSA coordinator suggested she collaborate with Samoa Tourism, leading to her appointment as the Climate Change Finance Assistant.
Excited about her new role, Isabella emphasises the challenges faced by the tourism industry in adapting to climate change, particularly with rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and the aftermath of natural disasters like cyclones. Her expertise lies in exploring avenues for financing these essential adaptations.
Isabella’s thesis delves into the ways climate financing mechanisms, such as the Green Climate Fund, can support small and medium-sized tourism enterprises to be sustainable. She advocates for diversifying tourism offerings beyond beach holidays and moving back inland from the beachfront, aligning with the evolving needs of Samoa’s tourism sector.
Acknowledging the hurdles faced by small governments, especially in the wake of challenges like COVID-19 recovery and inflation, Isabella emphasises her role in assisting with detailed proposals and educating others on accessing resources for climate change adaptation.
An essential aspect of Isabella’s work is ensuring that climate finance aligns with Samoan values and their communal way of life, known as ‘fa’a Samoa’ or ‘the Samoan way.’ She emphasises the importance of involving the local community in decision-making, especially regarding building back on the coast after weather events.
Isabella credits her International Development studies at Massey for shaping her perspective on global economic, social, political, and environmental forces. She believes in the significance of focusing on a country’s wellbeing, needs, and values rather than imposing external development theories.
As she prepares on her 10-month journey in Samoa, Isabella reflects on the culmination of hard work, initiative, and being in the right place at the right time. Looking ahead, she contemplates pursuing a Ph.D. in climate finance and sustainable tourism development, driven by her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the field.
