In a touching display of international cooperation, Lifeline Community Service, a charitable organization formerly based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, devoted its efforts to the educational needs of students at Lelean Memorial School in Nausori during the 1980s. An article published by The Fiji Times on August 24, 1984, highlighted Lifeline’s selfless contributions.
For over two decades, Lifeline organized various fundraising activities, including a remarkable campaign that involved baking and selling 1,600 cakes. Rob Pattison, a science teacher at Lelean Memorial, expressed his gratitude for Lifeline’s ongoing support, noting the significant impact their contributions have made. “The help they’ve extended to their community resonates deeply with us here in Fiji,” Mr. Pattison stated.
Founded at Portadown College in Belfast, Lifeline primarily assisted victims affected by regional conflict. Despite facing local challenges, their efforts showcased a dedication to global citizenship and education. During this time, Fiji’s High Commissioner to Great Britain, Ratu Josua Toganivalu, visited Portadown College to express Lelean’s appreciation for Lifeline’s support. He presented a traditional piece of masi cloth as a token of gratitude from the students of Lelean and received a school plaque in return, symbolizing the friendship and solidarity between the two institutions.
The visit featured a memorable moment when Ratu Josua was pleasantly surprised by a traditional Fijian song, arranged by Jennifer Douglas, a teacher at Portadown College. This initiative was designed to honor their Fijian counterparts.
Lifeline’s assistance proved crucial in improving educational resources at the Davuilevu school, leading to funding for magazine subscriptions, calculators, and computer books. Motivated by an article written by Mr. Pattison in an international teachers’ magazine, the students of Lifeline began fundraising efforts to meet specific needs identified at Lelean, particularly in science education. “The initial donation came from their collective effort in baking and selling cakes,” Mr. Pattison explained, noting that they have organized several fundraising events, including an upcoming walk-a-thon, to continue their support for the school.