Around 800 young people aged 16-25 gathered for day one of the conference which will run through until Saturday 20 March.
Following the Powhiri procession, Manukau Mayor Len Brown addressed the participants and stressed the importance of young people playing an active role in society.
“We want you to be great contributors in your communities; to take what you learn from this conference and inspire others to lead healthy, active lives,” said Brown.
The “singing mayor of Manukau” delighted the crowd with a hearty rendition of ‘Te Aroha’ to close his speech.
New Caledonia’s French Minister Jean-Claude Brioult then welcomed participants in French and English.
“It is magnificent to see so many countries represented here today. I know many of you will be travelling to New Caledonia next year for the Pacific Games and I look forward to welcoming you there also.”
PYASC Chairman and OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas announced a major funding boost for the conference with $US 100,000 set aside for the best projects drawn up during the week. He also gave details about a new agreement between OFC and CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) to increase tertiary education opportunities in the area of sports management.
“Through the support of FIFA, we have significant funding available to support the action plans born during this event and ensure their successful implementation. I am also pleased to announce a new partnership with CIES where we sponsor sports management courses for young people all over the Pacific,” said Nicholas.
FIFA World Cup winner Christian Karembeu then officially opened the conference.
Following the welcoming speeches, delegates heard from FIFA Chief Medical Officer Prof Jiri Dvorak and representatives of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Pacific Aids Foundation, NZ Aids Foundation and Special Olympics before participating in the afternoon workshops and roundtables.
PYASC CEO Franck Castillo says today’s launch is the culmination of almost two years of planning.
“I would like to sincerely thank my team of organisers who have shown tremendous passion and commitment to get everything ready for this week’s conference,” said Castillo.
“We also acknowledge our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible.”
To download the complete programme [English] click here

To download the complete programme [French] click here

To download the participant brochure [English]: click here

To download the participant brochure [French]: click here