Australian volunteer Ayman Mahli recently concluded a transformative year in Fiji, where he dedicated his time to enhancing the digital capabilities of local community organisations. Ayman’s journey, facilitated through the Australian Volunteers Program, was not just about work; it was also enriched by the vibrant culture and hospitality that Fiji has to offer, making his experience truly memorable.
During his twelve months in Fiji, Ayman served as an Information Technology Specialist and trainer, focusing primarily on two partner organisations: Building Innate Resilience Through Hearts (BIRTH) Fiji and the Vivekananda Technical Center (VTC). BIRTH Fiji is a women-led non-governmental organization that provides crucial counselling and mental health support in Lautoka, while VTC, located in Nadi, specializes in vocational training for local farmers.
At BIRTH Fiji, Ayman’s role revolved around digital transformation, which included migrating operations to cloud-based systems and enhancing the technical skills of the staff. He was instrumental in launching the BIRTH Fiji website and developing branding and social media initiatives to increase the organization’s visibility online. His contributions were so impactful that the CEO of BIRTH Fiji was invited to speak on a panel about domestic violence, a connection forged through the newly established website.
Ayman felt embraced by the local culture, saying, “Within the first day it felt like I was a team member.” He was included in various cultural celebrations, from Diwali to Iftar during Ramadan, which deepened his sense of belonging and reinforced his passion for helping others. This experience has motivated him to pursue further qualifications in counselling.
At VTC, Ayman focused on modernizing the school’s e-learning platform, enabling students to access online courses. He also conducted engaging workshops on important topics such as cybersecurity awareness and Microsoft Office applications, ensuring the staff were well-equipped in their digital skills.
In addition to his primary assignments, Ayman provided short-term IT consultancy for Habitat for Humanity Fiji and Empower Pacific, assisting them with urgent IT issues and service advice. However, a highlight of his experience was volunteering with a local rugby team, where he facilitated content creation and social media strategies. Ayman noted, “This experience took me out of my professional comfort zone… creating a real sense of pride for the team and their families.”
Since returning to Australia, Ayman continues to support BIRTH Fiji by hosting free online training sessions on Data Management and Cyber Security for NGOs across the Pacific, extending the impact of his time in Fiji. His journey underscores the profound connection that can be forged through volunteer work, showcasing how cultural exchange and community support can lead to lasting memories and continued partnerships.
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