In the early 1980s, Sailosi Tawake Vesikula from Lautoka devoted his life to assisting unemployed youths in Fiji’s Western Division. Transitioning from teaching to a development officer role with the Christian Youth Development Association, he created an initiative that provided employment opportunities and practical skills to 33 young men who were previously unemployed and roaming the streets.
The initiative, based at Mr. Vesikula’s home in Vunato, included diverse projects such as constructing cement toilet slabs and smokeless stoves, which were sold to the divisional health office for $20 each. Other ventures involved reselling cockerels purchased from local hatcheries and collecting and selling used bottles, highlighting a resourceful approach to job creation.
“This program is distinctly focused on individual empowerment,” said Mr. Vesikula, emphasizing that the boys, required to pay an annual membership fee of $2 from their earnings, received income directly from their work rather than pooling it for the association. The projects aimed to teach discipline and construction skills alongside fostering spiritual growth.
Vesikula’s vision extended toward expanding opportunities even further with plans for poultry and cattle farming. Yet, challenges arose due to delays involving land negotiations. Nevertheless, his commitment to enhancing the lives of young people left a significant impact.
The themes of empowerment and skill development resonate with recent government initiatives targeting unemployed youths in Fiji, such as vocational training programs implemented by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. These programs aim to reintegrate at-risk youth, provide practical skills, and ultimately uplift their communities. Similar undertakings highlight a collective approach towards nurturing talent and fostering a supportive environment for youth across Fiji.
The efforts made by Mr. Vesikula, along with ongoing government projects, indicate a positive trajectory toward societal improvement, empowering vulnerable populations, and providing hope for a brighter future. With continued collaboration and commitment from both communities and government bodies, the future appears promising for the young people of Fiji.
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