A heartfelt speech by 24-year-old student Olivia Tosul captured the spirit of this year’s Vanuatu Independence Day celebration in Brisbane, where people gathered to mark 45 years since the Pacific nation gained its sovereignty.

Speaking on behalf of the student community, Tosul’s emotional address embodied the 2025 theme, “Vanuatu, Tugeta Yumi Stanap” (Together We Stand), and served as a reminder of the enduring strength and identity of Ni-Vanuatu living abroad.

“Independence isn’t just history to us, it’s something we carry,” she said.

 “It lives in our language, our kastom, our resilience, and in every decision we make to grow, to rise, and to give back.”

Currently completing a double degree in Business Management and Economics at the University of Queensland, Tosul reflected on the complexities of studying and living far from home, from the early loneliness to the joy of community found in shared experiences.

“I didn’t get here on my own. None of us did. Even in the hardest moments, we find strength in each other,” she said.

The Brisbane celebration brought together a diverse people, including seasonal workers, South Sea Islander descendants, and international students. The event featured stalls serving traditional food like tuluk and performances by the newly formed band Toti Drop.

Toti Drop is a grassroots musical group formed on a banana farm in Mareeba, North Queensland, blending activism and artistry. Members include Ritchi Toka, a former actor with Wan Smolbag Theatre, and musicians Setla and Ben from activist bands DropVkal and Toti Lagoon. They were joined by Carlos Noronha, a Brisbane-based musician and singer Jeanette Barako. Their travel was made possible by Alfred Quai, owner of Blacston Kava Bar, a local venue that has become a cultural hub for Ni-Vanuatu in Brisbane.

Alfred Quai, along with Kava blong Yumi importer Bernie Cain, hosted a stall offering guests a taste of authentic Vanuatu kava.

Political and community leaders were also in attendance, including Queensland MP Bisma Asif (Member for Sandgate) and representatives of the United Workers Union.