Though the moment has passed, the impact of Tiaretaina Raera Brown’s journey to the Pacific Australian Emerging Leaders’ Summit in Canberra last November is still being felt - both in her life and in the local community.

Brown, a student at the Creative Centre in Rarotonga, was chosen by the Pacific Disability Forum to represent the Cook Islands at the high-profile summit.

The event brought together emerging leaders from 16 Pacific nations and Australia to discuss justice, leadership, and inclusivity for people with disabilities and other marginalized communities.

“This summit was not just an event - it was a gathering of voices dedicated to fostering inclusivity and positive change,” said Elizabeth Nootai, National Coordinator – Disability & UNPRPD Project Coordinator at Te Tango Akarangatira Ora’anga, Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The Creative Centre, where Tiare is enrolled, offers life skills programs and inclusive education for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Her selection for the summit indicated a historic step - she was among the very few with a visible disability present and one of the first from the Cook Islands to participate in such a capacity.

Accompanied by her mother, Grace Brown, Brown travelled to Sydney and then Canberra for what would become a wonderful transformative experience.

Over the course of seven intensive days, she engaged in leadership development sessions, built regional partnerships, and participated in meaningful discussions about disability rights and justice.

“Tiare’s highlight was meeting all the people from the different islands,” said Grace.

“She also really enjoyed going to the Australian Parliament and meeting two MPs. She told them about what she does at the Creative Centre - they listened, asked questions, and she answered with confidence. We were so proud of her for pushing through her nerves.”

As a support person, Grace ensured Tiare had the assistance she needed throughout the summit but also made space for her daughter to shine independently.

“It was important to let people know this was Tiare’s journey. I had to step back and let her take the lead - it was all about her, not me,” said Grace. “It was challenging at times, especially with the long days, but she made it through. It would’ve been nice to have more participants with similar disabilities, but hopefully that changes in the future.”

A particularly meaningful moment came when Tiare met the woman at Parliament who had approved her travel to Australia.

The experience proved to be more than just personal growth - Grace also made connections with professionals who work in disability services, one of whom visited Rarotonga in May to begin work with youth with disabilities in the Cook Islands.

Brown’s visit provided valuable lessons and helped her form meaningful connections that continue to influence her journey.