We are delighted to announce that Rendy Solomon, founder of Plasticwise Gizo and Chief Health Inspector at Gizo Hospital, has been named the inaugural winner of the 2025 Australia Awards Alumni Climate Warrior Award – in recognition of her outstanding leadership in climate action and environmental sustainability across the Western Province of the Solomon Islands.
Rendy completed an Australia Awards Fellowship at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) focusing on Improving Health and Community Participation in Rural WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Projects, which has helped guide her work in driving community-led solutions and strengthening environmental planning.
In 2017, in a bid to tackle a community health crisis, Rendy founded Plasticwise Gizo to address the growing impact of unmanaged waste in Gizo – particularly from malaria and the burning of rubbish. The group, now with over 150 members, focuses on education, waste segregation, and promoting the 3 R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. She has since launched the ‘Garbage Weavers of Gizo’ which empowers women and girls to turn waste into handcrafted products that also support sustainable livelihoods.
“Rendy is a powerhouse of community change,” said Anissa Lawrence, Managing Director of OceanEarth Foundation. “Her work demonstrates how locally driven action can improve health, the environment and empower communities – especially women. And we’re thrilled that she’s been recognised by this award.”
OceanEarth Foundation has worked with Plasticwise Gizo for the past five years, providing strategy and expertise to help grow and scale the program, and as their fundraising partner in Australia. With OceanEarth’s continued partnership, Rendy and her team are now actively working to expand their waste management infrastructure and educational program throughout the Western Province, and beyond.
“I’m very grateful to receive this award,” said Rendy Solomon. “It reflects the dedication of my team and community and shows what’s possible when we work together to create change from the ground up.”
As the inaugural recipient of the Alumni Climate Warrior Award, Rendy will receive SBD$25,000 to support her continued leadership and professional development.
This award recognises not only Rendy’s leadership, but also the growing role of Pacific women in driving, community-based climate solutions.