Maureen Penjueli was born on the island of Rotuma but spent most of her schooling life in Lautoka, Fiji. She undertook the Foundation in Science Programme at the University of the South Pacific and gained a Degree in Australian Environmental Science at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. Married with seven children and two dogs, she considers herself a student of life. Penjueli is a dedicated activist, having pursued environmental, social and economic justice issues for over 20 years throughout the region. She is currently Coordinator for the Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG), a leading regional NGO working on trade and economic justice issues. PANG’s work involves research, lobbying, and advocacy with and on behalf of civil society groups, faith-based organizations, communities, and customary landowners.

Image credits: Pangolin Films