“The Taboo(s)”

by Herleen Emily (Nadi)

Our society often has a stereotype on certain issues that are restricted to be discussed amongst youngsters which is formally known as “taboo”. These issues include; sex, rape, romantic relationships, child abuse, sexual harassment and even puberty. Youths are often kept in a darker side of not having knowledge of what may come ahead in their life and maybe this is the very reason why we are having an increase in rape cases and sexual harassments in our country. Due to the fact that our society has put a taboo on these issues, it would be obvious that youths would want to “experiment” sex.

However, the core problem sits in our society and individual households who have formulated this stereotype. The phase of adolescence in a person’s life is a very fragile and sensitive one whereby they go through puberty and are known to have very active hormones. Thus, having unsettled and indecisive mindsets, they often make wrong decisions in their lives. So, to have a better understanding of life, why can’t sex be the topic of a dinner table? Or bed time story telling?

Parents often claim that issues like sex are connected to chains of respect, dignity, patience and the right time; which is acceptable. But if this message is not conveyed to them with time, they might lose their patience. Hence, would start to experiment it, physically or by watching pornography which clearly gives wrong ideology of having sex in life. Thus, where will respect, dignity and patience fit in? Discussing about these issues may prepare them for life and for the world that awaits them.

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It is time when our society should rise with dawn and connect to the 21st century. It may have been a “taboo” in the yester centuries but an open book to this modern era. Why should we not talk about something that would be inevitable in our life? There surely is time for everything, but it is always important to prepare before the right time approaches.

By: Herleen Emily

National Climate Change Week - Fiji Calls for Urgent Global Action

One thing that the world will not forget after the November COP 23 meeting is the Fiji Bula spirit and the resilient Pacific Islanders who stand steadfastly together to push for lower carbon emissions.

When the 20,000 participants come to Bonn, they will see an iTaukei drua, an ocean going canoe displayed in the main auditorium. Unlike other COP global meetings, this one is being constructively marked with the stamp of Fiji and the Pacific islands. The drua in Bonn shows that it is not just Fiji and the Pacific islands that are in the same canoe but the whole world and its 7.5 billion inhabitants as no one is immune to climate change. Our PM as the President of COP 23 will exhort all delegates of the need for urgent action to fill its sail with a global determination to move the climate agenda forward as time is running out.

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres praised Fiji’s leadership on the global stage, in particular in the areas of climate change, oceans health and peacekeeping duties. Guterres said that “it was encouraging to see a small island developing state like Fiji taking leadership in addressing significant challenges faced by the global community." He added that such strong global leadership is very reassuring in that multilateralism is very much alive and is an indicator that many good things can happen.

National Climate Week which is being celebrated this week from 22nd to 29th September is a reminder that all Fijians must fill the drua's sail with personal action that will reduce your carbon footprints. The activities undertaken this week is also aimed at raising awareness on the effects of climate change, and to educate the public on Fiji’s COP 23 Presidency.

We the public can contribute to reducing carbon emissions through living healthy and purposeful lives. Beautiful foot paths have sprung up in Suva, Nasinu and many other urban areas. Instead of leading sedentary lives confined to the armchairs near our TV sets or the spaces where our yaqona bowls are located, we should be inspired by these footpaths to take up new hobbies like walking or jogging in the mornings or after work. I must confess that as I walk in the afternoons I am often greeted by cynical looks on hardened faces. We should all consider the Godly joys of being one with nature by having regular exercises. We will have a deep appreciation of God’s greatness as we undertake physical activities and look heavenwards to pray for climate action .

With the high incidences of non communicable diseases, we should also be taking action to plant local fruits, vegetables, medicinal herbs and root crops in our home gardens. We should cut down on eating processed and oily foods including fizzy drinks.

Last week Mr Bainimarama made an appeal for climate cooperation at the UN general assembly. He said, “If we view this as some sort of negotiation in which each country tries to preserve its narrow national interests, we will all lose. We will be powerless to protect our own people from the consequences of climate change.” There were two other pieces of good news. Nicaragua who never supported climate change action suddenly had a change of heart leaving only 2 countries, the US and war torn Syria out of the Paris Agreement. The other piece of good news is that California governor Jerry Brown (who had been appointed a special envoy by the Fijian COP 23 presidency) promoted his “Under 2 coalition” of cities and states pledging climate action. Those who have signed are responsible for 39% of global GDP. In California, Brown has a bill to set a 100% renewable electricity target.”

As we celebrate National Climate Week, let us accelerate our positive actions for a resilient Fiji.

Accelerating Climate Action for a Resilient Fiji

"We should be mindful that we can do all things through God who strengthens us. In our prayers we should integrate messages of environmental stewardship and pray for the success of our COP 23 Presidency."

Presentation by Ms Candace Veramu, Miss Hibiscus 2017 at the National Climate Change Week Event held at Ratu Sukuna Park on Saturday September 23rd 2017

 

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I am indeed honoured to be given this opportunity to make a presentation on the occasion of National Climate Week which began yesterday and will end on Saturday, September 30 when the Prime Minister who is also President of COP 23 will officiate at the closing.

The Prime Minister while addressing the UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn in May had outlined a detailed 7 point plan on Fiji’s vision of COP 23. One of the strategies is of great relevance to all Fijians as we develop climate action for a resilient Fiji.

Honorable Bainimarama had told the world community that we will infuse COP 23 with the Fijian “Bula Spirit” of inclusiveness, friendliness and solidarity. This is a process of inclusive, participatory and transparent dialogue that builds empathy and leads to decision making for the collective good of the nation and indeed the whole world. It is not about finger pointing and laying blame but it is about listening to each other, learning from each other, sharing stories, skills and experiences. By focusing on the benefits of action, this process will move the global climate agenda forward.

I have taken into account the Bula Spirit of National Climate Week. My interest is in holistic wellness and good health for myself, my family, and the nation. While the technical issues of the Paris Agreement on Carbon Emission Reductions are being negotiated in the UN through COP 23, we the citizens of Fiji can take personal action to reduce our own carbon footprints.

I personally take an interest in planting local organic fruits, vegetables and root crops in our home garden in Wailoku. This is something that we can all do. Our young people can also do this in the afternoons before they go off to play touch rugby or other leisure activities.

  

We should take action by eating less imported processed foods and consuming more locally grown foods. Eating healthy doesn't just directly impact your own life, it can help inspire those around you as well. Composting, recycling, and keeping Fiji free from litter will help reduce our individual carbon emissions and contribute further to Fiji’s lower carbon footprints.

I notice that footpaths have been constructed in the Suva and Nasinu areas and indeed in many other areas. We can all use these paths to walk or jog in the mornings or after work to keep fit. This will also have the positive effect of reducing incidences of non-communicable diseases which are preventable.

We really have an opportunity when we take control of our lives to positively affect every person around us through our lifestyle choices and decisions. Considering a movement towards greater sustainable living is critical to our future.

We should be mindful that we can do all things through God who strengthens us. In our prayers we should integrate messages of environmental stewardship and pray for the success of our COP 23 Presidency. The key point I wish to leave with you all is that we must take action to reduce our carbon emissions.

As we launch National Climate Week I take this opportunity to acknowledge all those who are working to support our nation’s reduced carbon footprints. Our Prime Minister had stated that "Climate change is about our existence, our survival and saving something for our children and their children." Let us take positive action now so that the Fiji we leave for the children now and in future is a sustainable one.

Thank you very much for your time and patience.

LETTER TO MUM!

by Herleen Emily

“I believe that mothers are the biggest strength in a child’s life”

Today, I pen down a letter to my companion, friend, creator, supporter, motivator and “mum.”

It is a sweet day with the sun’s rays kissing the dearest mother earth and how can I be unfortunate of expressing my feeling towards the world’s greatest mothers.

This is a letter for you mum, a letter that speaks thousands of words and expresses millions of emotions. My mother! A woman of courage, faith, spirituality, care and most importantly love. Every day I wake up and thank the lord for blessing me with an angel who is undoubtedly fearless when it comes to fighting for my right.

Ever since I woke up from the world of childhood, I came to realize what you have done or doing for me. I know I am bad at expressing my feelings but truly I love you for what you have made me today. I am a young aspiring youth who is fearless in the world of cruel yet I fear your hidings upon me.

I know I am naughty and the most over ruling person in the family but that doesn’t stop you from loving me. As a head girl of my school, I am at times loaded with work however you make it much easier for me to come home and relax.

This is a letter I am writing to you to appreciate and thank you for making me the best version of me, for letting me be the “Herleen”, for making me cross paths that none have ever crossed and most importantly for loving me unconditionally.

I know it’s not mother’s day but do we really need to allocate a day for our mothers to thank them for who they really are?

As a child I have never shied away from walking with my mum or dad and will never do such a nasty thing. I am proud to have wonderful parents who are everything for me in my life. “Let the world laugh for they are not worthy for your attention”

I know this isn’t enough but I hope this will be a lesson for many young children to not to neglect their parents for who they are. “Rich or poor, old or young, parents will always be parents.”

Personally, I have seen many children shy away from their parents in school during parents day/interview for their dressing style or any other way but what they tend to not understand is that their parents work hard to ensure that their children get the branded clothes which their parents couldn’t afford.

If you are or were one of those children who use to shy away from their parents or are currently doing the same, do you think you are doing the right thing? Think twice, think thrice and come up with an answer, if you feel guilty, you are forgiven and tell your parents that you love them but if you don’t you are not human.

C’mon children why take out a day and appreciate your mothers when you can do that every day.

Love you mum, Emily Andrews! My pillar of strength and hope!

 

 By: Herleen Emily

 

INSPIRATIONAL NADI YOUTH CLUB!

by Herleen Andrews <herleen_andrews24@yahoo.com

Nadi youth club a newly formed youth club in Nadi which is registered under the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Fiji.

The club was founded by Herleen Emily (myself) who is also the president of the club.

Nadi Youth club is considered special because it fosters 21 youths who are students and between the ages of 14-18.

These youths are schooling and are unemployed but still have a will to make a difference in the community.

They contribute towards the soli by giving money from their pocket expenses.

Every fortnight youths contribute $2 towards the club’s projects and service work.

We don’t only help the community but as well as help our own youths who are in need and provide groceries to their families if needed.

As a club we all have become a one big happy family and we have overcome all odds as a family.

The club also fosters youths who have made a mistake in their lives in any way or other. We don’t leave them like that; however, we help them boost their self esteem by making them part of our club.

According to John Kumar, the Vice-President of the club he said that being part of this initiative has really helped a lot of youths find their meanings in life, a meaning that defines youths as future leaders of tomorrow.

Nadi youth club rehabilitates youths who have committed crime or have indiscipline behaviors. We promote equality, that no matter whom one is, poor or rich, good or bad, white or black; we are family, a family of hope and inspiration.  

It is indeed heart touching to see younger generation taking part in such initiatives.

The club has done four major projects since its establishment that is;

Ø Clean up of St Mina’s Orphanage Home

Ø Clean up of Wailoaloa Beach to help fight against climate change

Ø A speech by their president and March by the club was done in the 2017 bula festival to advocate on social issues affecting the youths of our nation.

Ø A little donation of groceries (fruits & vegetables) to the Nadi Hospital Children’s ward to help put in something extra on their plates.

It is breathtaking to witness young people indulge themselves in community projects and services.

“At times our club may be facing financial problem but we don’t believe money is the only way which can help improve the lives of the people but rather there are billions of ways”

In such a short span of time, the club has offered so much to the community of Nadi, since its establishment on 4^th of May, 2017.

A little contribution to the Nadi Hospital children’s ward is an eye opener for many who believe that only the government has the role to play in putting food on the table for patients.

The club is trying to promote responsible citizenship to every Fijians.

As the president of the club, I believe “We don’t have to be rich to help the poor and needy, we only need to have a heart of humanity and a willingness to help uplift the standard of people around you”

A small contribution can make a big difference; little by little we can achieve bigger things as a nation.

"We believe, the cut, burns and bruises you gave yourself is a battle, only you can win"

The time has come that we as true Fijians take ownership of our responsibilities and make Fiji a happier place to live in.

We may not be the same but together we can make Fiji a better place to live in.

Nadi youth Club- Rising youths of tomorrow!

By Herleen Emily

FAMILY YOUTH WOWS THE COMMUNITY!

by Herleen Andrews <herleen_andrews24@yahoo.com>

“Our family is a circle of strength and love with every birth and union it grows. Every crisis faced together makes the circle stronger.”

According to my research, family history goes that the first Andrews that came to Fiji (early 1800's) was named Brent Andrews.

He was a whaler on a ship that sank off the harbor in Suva. His family later continued and still presently lives in Kasavu (approx 500 acres). The family resident is still there today made of Oregon pine.

There more than 300 Andrews families in Fiji who have constantly grown over the years.

The Andrews families have resided in Kasavu, Savusavu for hundreds of years and have regarded Kasavu their home of paradise.

There are three parts of the Andrews family clan, Solove, Lovonisikeci and Vunikavika which was divided between three brothers.

The 7^TH Generation of Brent Andrews (descendents) Kai & Vasu have taken the initiative to build a seawall made up of sand bags to help prevent soil erosion.

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The 7^th generation of Brent Andrews family youth group has inspired the people of Kasavu, Savusavu to take intense care of the ocean.

Founded by a group of youths of the 7^th generation, the youths have soli every fortnight to contribute towards the making of the seawall at Kasavu beach.

The main motive to form this club was to connect the 1 big generation of a 1 big family, thus the idea came about at a grog session on the 26/01/16 with few cousins playing cards.

The Brent Andrews Generation is a large generation however, overtime gradually losing its connection on the family tree.

According to Darling Whippy the secretary of the club said that young people play a major role in our communities today.

Aftermath of tropical cyclone Winston, Kasavu beach was losing its beauty, those white sandy beaches were no longer shining and the crystal blue water was taking the sand away from our land.

“Knowing that we were losing connections from our family tree, we came up with the idea of building a sea wall made out of sand bags to help prevent the erosion of the sand.”

“This initiative would help bring families of all generation together.”

 “We formed this group to inspire other families to also take ownership of the environment as it is god gifted.”

“Awareness needs to be created to stop the rise of sea-level which is caused by climate change and with our nation involved in COP23 it was an icing-on the cake,” said Patrick.

 The group has been collecting money internally to buy sand bags and other essential items for the project. “We have faced difficulties throughout this journey but with the lords grace we were able to overcome those” said Patrick Andrews.

According to the group’s secretary Darling Whippy, “Ocean has been a major food source for the community; however, with the changes in the climatic weather patterns, there has been a rise in sea level leading to the destruction of the white sandy beaches.”

Apart from building a sandbag seawall the generation also does projects in all the three clans (Solove, Vunikavika and Lovonisikeci) like building small bridges, cleaning their fore father’s grave yards and farms, etc.

“Now through this initiative we are able to connect to the long lost families,” said Darling Whippy.

She further added that the erosion of white sandy beaches meant that the most essential part of nature was losing its presence.

The family lived there for years and regards it as a home of paradise

The group consists of 113 members.

This Family youth generation has surely caught the eyes of many people to also take such initiatives in their community. It is us who should make the move first rather than involving the government at the first place.

Surely the government is doing a marvelous work but it should all start from us. The love for our yasayasa and the place we come from. Our true identity! Yes! We are the agents of Change!

I’m proud to say that my vasu is from Vanualevu.

Broderick Mervyn: A Youth Leader for All Seasons

Dear Readers, We are reprinting here an article that appeared in the Fiji Sun about Broderick Mervyn one of our brightest youths. He joined YFI while still in high school and has been an excellent role model for all young people in Fiji and beyond our shores.

An aspiring diplomat Broderick Mervyn, who recently represented Fiji at the 6th Asia – Pacific Youth Parliament for Water (APYPW). The Fiji Sun Aspire got the chance to ask Mr Mervyn about his participation at this event.

Give a brief summary about yourself
Broderick Mervyn, currently at third year student at the University of the South Pacif­ic, Laucala Campus completing my Bachelor of Laws and Diploma in Leadership, Govern­ance and Human Rights.
I’m a volunteer for Scripture Union Fiji and Project Survival Pacific, a member of the Pa­cific Youth Against Corruption.

Give a brief summary of the event
At the sixth Asia-Pacific Youth Parliament for Water (APYPW), the theme for this Con­ference is “Raise Your Voice Towards Global Water Issues” and it will be held in Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technol­ogy (UNIST), in the Republic of South Korea having a total number of 60 Asia-Pacific par­ticipants at this event.
The event commences on the 14th and end­ed on the 17th of August.
What was the feeling like being selected to be part of this event?
I was indeed humbled and honoured to be selected. It was a great opportunity for me as an emerging leader to interact with youth leaders from all walks of life.
I thank God Almighty for his constant fa­vour on my life.
I want to thank the Ministry of Environ­ment from the Republic of South Korea and the Korea Water Forum for selecting me.

What are the areas of focus and main objective of the meet?
The 6th APYPW had commissions which all had different themes respectively for parlia­mentarians to discuss.
I focused on water affecting youths and the parliamentarians were grouped into dif­ferent delegations of countries and each of them consisted of 15 to 20 people.
Parliamentarians discussed current issues on water representing their country.
The themes of commission sessions will be decided by the steering committee after gathering the ideas of all participants. The issues are focused on water and accessibility of water.

Were you the only one representing Fiji and what is the main aim of being part of the meet?
Yes, I will be the only one representing Fiji.
I think the main aim of being part of this event was that I want to minimise the water cuts that are occurring in our country and what measures can be done to prevent it.
I have already prepared the country report as well as a powerpoint presentation on Fiji and the water issues that we face.

What advice would you give to youths to encourage them to be active members of society?
Just want to encourage our youths to make a change and not let others make that change for you.
I also want to advise the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education and tertiary institutions to implement work­shops, conferences and seminars for youths.
Many of them are not aware of these fully- funded programmes.
And when selecting people to represent the country, I advise them to avoid biased and select individuals that have vast experience and not those that are just going for the first time.

Your area is law. So where do you see yourself three to four years from now?
I want to be part of the Fiji Access to Jus­tice Project team under UNDP and strength­en their work in ensuring that all Fijians have access to justice particularly those in the rural areas in our country and later on, work my way to becoming the Fijian Ambas­sador to the United Nations.

Who is your greatest inspiration and supporters?
Greatest inspirations are:
1) Jesus Christ
2) Senior Pastor Jacob Masiyaka and Jemi­mah Masiyaka
The greatest supporters in my life are:
1) My family especially my mother, Harri­eta Fonmanu who has been there constantly since day one of my life
2) My friends in Scripture Union Fiji West­ern and Central Division
3) The volunteers for Youths for Integrity and Radio Pasifik (89.4FM) at USP Laucala Campus
4) Anaseini Naulivou
5) Apenisa Ralulu
Feedback: mere.satakala@fijisun.com.fj

Politically Active Youth: Ilikini Bulidama

Ilikini Bulidama, 20, is a fixture on social media posting on political issues. I had been expecting an intense and angst filled youth obsessed with saving the world and was pleasantly surprised to see a down to earth individual who is very polite and friendly and reminded me of how I was when I was a teenager. Ilikini lists his hobbies as reading, travelling, watching documentaries and swimming. He is careful with his diet given the concerns for non-communicable diseases and he especially likes eating boiled vegetables and salads.

He recounts that he “was not really interested in politics at first, until Year 11 when I switched my subject combination from Accounting to History. My History teacher’s prowess suddenly ignited my political interest. especially in the Class Based Assessment Project where we were required to write about any Leader in Fiji who has helped build the Nation.”

Commenting on social media, Ilikini says it is “a great way to connect with the people and getting our message across. I also update the people on government’s performance to enable them to vote wisely in any election.”

Some people have messaged Ilikini to compliment his political views.A lady at the flea market told him she always followed his posts. He admits that this inspired him immensely.

Ilikini dreams of the day he will be in Parliament. He “would like to be the Prime Minister in the near future. He will not be sidetracked by the trappings of power like the Land Cruiser and the Policemen saluting as he disembarks.

Ilikini is “forever grateful to my parents and I owe them a great debt for my upbringing. I will never forget the virtues that I was taught which will help me a lot in the future.” He also feels that he was “blessed to be educated in one of the best institution which gave me the knowledge required to tackle life and to succeed in my career.”

He admires “Ro Teimumu as a great Leader but with due respect to the Marama, I still don’t like the fact that she’s supporting Rabuka, a person who introduced the Coup Culture to Fiji.”