Letitia Shelton, a pastor and the CEO of the non-profit organization City Women in Toowoomba, Queensland, is setting out to cycle an impressive 6,000 kilometers across the United States to raise funds for a vital resource book aimed at educating young people in Fiji on relationship topics often considered taboo. With a personal connection to Fiji, where she lived as a teenager, Shelton has been dedicated to providing a safe space for youth to discuss critical issues.
Having rekindled her relationship with Fiji in 2019, Letitia emphasizes the importance of this initiative, which is being developed in collaboration with 20 local Fijian leaders. The book, titled “Sex, Dating and Relationship,” will serve as a free resource filled with insights on various subjects such as healthy relationships, dating dynamics, and the effects of pornography—areas where young people are eager for guidance.
To achieve her objective, Letitia has committed to an extensive training regime over the past three months, cycling at least 16 hours a week and incorporating strength training sessions. Her cycling journey will commence on August 21, starting from Portland, Oregon, and concluding in Portland, Maine, a challenging route that includes traversing the Rocky Mountains.
Reflecting on her motivations, Letitia shares, “This experience will stretch me physically, mentally, and emotionally, but you never grow unless you are willing to be stretched.” She expresses her enthusiasm for cycling with newfound companions and experiencing the diverse landscapes of the USA.
Moreover, her ongoing podcast, “The Disruptive Voices of the Pacific,” creates a platform for Fijians to share their stories and address many of the silent struggles surrounding relationship issues in their culture. The proceeds from her cycling venture are earmarked for the book’s printing and distribution, ensuring that it remains a free and accessible resource for youth in Fiji.
As Letitia embarks on this formidable journey, her determination to empower the next generation of Fijians serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact one individual can make through courage and community engagement. Donations for her cause can be made through the specified fundraising platform.
This ambitious cycling mission not only reflects Letitia’s personal passion for cycling but also highlights her unwavering commitment to uplifting young people in Fiji.
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