June 8th, 2024
In 2016, Selita embarked on a journey that would change not only her life but also the lives of countless others in Fiji. Leaving behind her role as the Youth Coordinator for the Nadroga Navosa Provincial Council, she joined the Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation,
driven by a passion for community development and a vision for a resilient future.
With Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation as her guiding platform, Selita began traversing the rugged interiors of Viti Levu, reaching out to remote schools and assisting with community projects. Equipped with knowledge from her studies, enriched by past work experiences, and fueled by her life experiences, Selita utilized the resources and continuous support provided by the Foundation to help communities become self-sustaining and resilient in the face of natural disasters and human crises.
Recognizing the power of corporate social responsibility, Selita harnessed the Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation's platform to connect with the corporate world, enabling a broad network that tackled pressing societal needs. Her efforts paved the way for the formation of the Hakwa Foundation in 2018, a voluntary organization that encourages philanthropy in the business and corporate sectors, particularly in the Western Division.
Through the Hakwa Foundation, Selita initiated a yearly drive that provided stationeries and library books to 15 schools in the Western Division, benefiting both local and international communities. This drive has so far assisted 143 children, including
25 referred by community leaders and 16 from within the Hakwa Foundation and Western Charity volunteer network.
Under the World of Difference (WoD) program, Selita expanded her reach, assisting individuals from all walks of life Youths, single
mothers, widows, the elderly, victims of violence, and those with psychosocial and physical disabilities. Through capacity-building training organized by partners and stakeholders, she not only gained valuable skills but also tailored and delivered
training to suit the unique needs of various communities.
Selita's efforts extended beyond training and education. She played a crucial role in connecting young graduates to job markets and provided references to volunteers, recognizing their contributions and facilitating their professional growth. Her fundraising initiatives supported youth clubs, rugby teams, community projects, advocacy platforms, and partnerships, ensuring a positive return on investment for these causes.
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