Suva, Fiji — On 11 October 2025, member nations of World Boxing from across the Oceania region—Aotearoa, Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa, Tahiti, and Tuvalu—gathered in Fiji for the inaugural Oceania Boxing Confederation Congress. The landmark event marked a major milestone for the region’s boxing community, with the adoption of the Confederation’s statutes and the election of its first Board to guide the organisation’s future.
The Fiji Amateur Boxing Association hosted the historic Congress, welcoming delegates with a traditional kava ceremony. The ceremony symbolised unity and respect among Pacific nations—once shared, the kava represents the delegates becoming one with the people of Fiji.
Delegates were honoured to receive welcoming remarks from Ms. Kathy Wong, President of the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) and Board Member of the Oceania National Olympic Committee (ONOC).
Ms. Wong underscored the importance of athlete welfare and encouraged greater female participation in boxing throughout the region.
Mr. Ratu Meli Nacuva, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Government of Fiji), congratulated member federations for their perseverance under World Boxing.
He reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the Olympic pathway.. “For Fiji, the road to the 2032 Olympics begins now, with boxing playing an integral role.”
The Congress was chaired by Ms. Dinah Glykidis, Vice President of World Boxing, with FASANOC serving as scrutineer to ensure transparency in the election process.
The newly elected Oceania Boxing Confederation Board is as follows:
• President: Ms Beulah Daunakamakama (Fiji)
• Vice President (1): Mr Phil Goodes (Australia)
• Vice President (2): Afioga Tavui Mike Lemisio (Samoa)
• Board Members: Ishmael Tahiata (French Polynesia), Lefau Francis Joseph Ainuu (Samoa), and Ms. Manaema Saitala (Tuvalu – co-opted)
• Chair, Sports & Competition Committee: Scott Bindloss (Kiribati)
• Treasurer (Chair, Audit & Finance Committee): Vacant
One Board member position also remains vacant.
Delegates expressed sincere appreciation to World Boxing for safeguarding the Olympic pathway for athletes and supporting the revitalisation of Oceania Boxing through renewed leadership and unity.
In her first address as President, Ms. Beulah Daunakamakama emphasised the ongoing need to strengthen the Confederation’s foundations, particularly by supporting smaller and resource-limited member nations.
“We are only as strong as our weakest Federation,” she stated.
“The warrior spirit that defines our Pacific people is seen in our success in professional boxing and other contact sports. Our goal is to bring that same strength and unity to the amateur Olympic ring.”
The Congress also paid tribute to Mr. Boris Van der Vorst, outgoing President of World Boxing, for his dedication, personal financial contributions, and tireless efforts in supporting the establishment of Oceania Boxing.
Delegates extended heartfelt appreciation for his leadership and commitment to the global boxing family, wishing him and his family continued success and well-being.
Public Notices
- Lalaga le Vā Unites more than 300 Urban Community Leaders Against Drugs and Violence - September 8, 2026
- Keith Smith Officially Accredited as Canada’s High Commissioner to Samoa - September 1, 2026
- Diesel and Kerosene Prices Rise in September - September 1, 2026
