Future Visions: What Youth Want

Ask youth about desired futures, patterns emerge across territories:

Environmental Sustainability "Future where reef lives, forest breathes, children swim in clean ocean," envisions Guadeloupean marine biology student Léa Maximin. "Simple but apparently revolutionary."

Economic Opportunity "Jobs that don't require leaving family. Businesses that respect culture. Wealth that stays local," lists New Caledonian entrepreneur trainee Patricia Poawinadjou. "Not asking for moon—just fair chance."

Cultural Pride "Speaking Creole without shame. Teaching children our dances. Seeing our stories on screen," dreams Martinican filmmaker Daniella Pierre-Louis. "Existence without apology."

Political Voice "Decisions about us made by us. Youth in leadership, not just photos. Real power, not token consultation," demands Réunionnais activist Lucas Permalnaick. "Democracy means everyone, not just elders."

Global Connection "Being proudly local while globally connected. Island identity with worldwide reach. Roots and wings together," articulates Tahitian blogger Vaea Ferrand. "Why choose?"