As a Pacific islander from Tahiti, French Polynesia, Tekau Frere has always been committed to solving environmental issues. Both her professional and academic experiences have reflected her concern and dedication to islands issues. She has worked on coral reef conservation with Reef Check, on carbon bio-sequestration and reforestation projects through agro-forestry with Pro Natura International, and on energy access with UNDP.
She has conducted research and policy analysis on invasive species, marine life degradation, and climate change impacts on island communities. In particular, she has focused on the question of future climate change refugees as a catalyst to violent conflicts.
She holds a BA in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Master in International Affairs and Environmental Policy Studies from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University.