July 11th, 2024
Inspiring Impactful Stories from Foundation Funded project – Vodafone World of Difference, a passionate paid volunteer program that allows individual to work for charities that they are passionate about.
Sunil Kumar's journey is a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and transformation. Born into a humble family in Moto Ba, Sunil broke the chains of generational poverty and cane farming by becoming the first in his family to pursue higher education. His academic journey at the University of the South Pacific (USP) was not just about personal achievement but a stepping stone toward broader societal impact. Sunil's time at USP was marked by more than just academic pursuits. He immersed himself in volunteer work with the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), dedicating his breaks to community service. This early exposure to helping others ignited a passion in him that would define his future.
A pivotal moment came when Sunil attended a workshop where he met two women from Homes of Hope (HOH), an organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating women and children from sexual exploitation and domestic abuse. Their stories resonated deeply with Sunil, sparking a desire to contribute meaningfully to this cause.
Driven by this newfound passion, Sunil approached HOH's management, expressing his wish to conduct skills training for the residents. Despite being a single, non-Christian fresh graduate, his determination and sincerity impressed the founder of HOH, who offered him a volunteer position. This opportunity marked the beginning of Sunil’s transformative journey with HOH.
Sunil's dedication quickly became evident. In August, he discovered the Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation's World of Difference program, which he joined to amplify his impact. Starting as a project officer, he soon demonstrated his capabilities and was entrusted with establishing the Women’s Institute for Women & Girls. This institute focuses on equipping women and girls with essential skills for independence and empowerment. Over the years, Sunil's role at HOH has evolved. He is now the Team Leader for Training and Social Enterprise, as well as the Management Representative of HOH. These roles have allowed him to shape the organization's strategic direction, enhance its training programs, and develop sustainable social enterprises that support HOH's mission.
Sunil's 14-year tenure at Homes of Hope has been marked by significant achievements. Under his leadership, 19 staff members received international skills training through the Australia-Pacific Technical College (APTC). This upskilling initiative has empowered HOH’s team to deliver high-quality training and support to the residents. One of Sunil's notable accomplishments is preparing HOH for registration with the Higher Education Commission of Fiji. This recognition as a formal training center will enhance HOH’s credibility and enable it to offer accredited programs, thereby expanding its impact.
The acquisition of 14 brand-new laptops for the girls at HOH is another milestone. These laptops are used to teach basic computing skills, essential for the modern job market. Sunil has also been instrumental in expanding HOH's community outreach programs. Recently, he spearheaded a climate change initiative across five communities, focusing on climate-smart gardening techniques. This project underscores his commitment to sustainable development and community resilience.
Sunil envisions leveraging technology to further enhance HOH’s impact. By connecting master gardeners and community leaders through digital platforms, HOH can facilitate continuous education and engagement. This digital transformation will also enable HOH to showcase its products and services online, allowing supporters to purchase directly, thus fostering sustainability and broader outreach.
As the Team Leader for Training and Social Enterprise, Sunil has developed programs that not only empower individuals but also generate revenue to support HOH’s operations. These social enterprises range from vocational training workshops in sewing, baking, and computer literacy to partnerships with local businesses for employment opportunities.
Sunil’s vision for HOH includes expanding its educational offerings, enhancing community programs, and leveraging digital technology for greater impact. By utilizing digital platforms, HOH can keep in touch with master gardeners and community leaders, ensuring ongoing support and knowledge sharing. Additionally, digitalizing HOH’s operations will allow it to display its products and services online, making them accessible to a wider audience and generating additional revenue.
Sunil's efforts in advocacy are also noteworthy. He raises awareness about sexual exploitation and domestic abuse through public speaking, workshops, and social media campaigns. His work has mobilized support and fostered a culture of empathy and action.
Through the Vodafone World of Difference program, Sunil Kumar has not only transformed lives at Homes of Hope but has also set a precedent for holistic community development. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the profound impact one individual can have on society.
Sunil Kumar’s journey from Moto Ba to becoming a leader at Homes of Hope exemplifies the impact of education, dedication, and a commitment to social change. His leadership has empowered women and children, fostered sustainable development, and inspired broader societal change. As he continues to leverage technology and develop social enterprises, Sunil’s work at Homes of Hope stands as a beacon of hope and a model for transformative community service.
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