Tuifaasisina Tapenaga Junior Polataivao-Reupena is a proud Samoan hailing from the villages of Lepa, Matatufu, Fasito’otai, Falevao, Falelatai-Matamatanonofo, Samatau, Nofoali’i in Upolu and Fagae’e, Sasina, Letui in Savai’i. TJ has been a long serving member of the Pasefika Climate community, having joined Pacific Climate Warriors in 2018 he has since become part of the organising committee and has led and been part of many PCW Meanjin actions, events and panels representing the diasporic youth Pasefika perspective.
Studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Queensland, TJ is passionate about his Pacific community and hopes to work back home in Samoa once he graduates. A former President of the UQ South Pacific Islander Association, TJ actively contributes to issues and initiatives that can support and empower the future Pasefika generations. TJ is also the elected Treasurer and was the former Vice President of Campus Culture with the UQ Student Union. You will hear him before you see him, and his presence creates an impact in every space he occupies. He continues to be a valuable member within the Pasefika climate environment.