Forty-seven students from Nadi, trained by police officers, are now ready to assume leadership roles within their communities. These students, hailing from various schools in Nadi and Sigatoka, took part in a two-day Blue Light leadership training and practical skills development program at Korovuto College in Nadi.
The training was organized and supported by Blue Light, a registered charity based in New Zealand, which collaborates with law enforcement to provide a variety of youth programs and activities. The primary objectives of Blue Light include minimizing the chances of young people becoming either offenders or victims of crime, while also promoting stronger relationships between the police, youth, parents, and the wider community.
On Wednesday, the 47 students officially graduated from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa, urged the students to become catalysts for change in their schools and communities. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on their training and acknowledged the potential they have as young leaders.
“Be mindful of everything you have learned. We brought you together from different parts of Nadi because we believe in your potential as leaders,” SSP Vaisewa said. He highlighted the troubling behaviors some of their peers have engaged in, which threaten their well-being, including drug use and other criminal activities.
He cautioned them against these negative influences, stating, “This is the path some of your peers are following, but you still have the chance to choose the right direction.” SSP Vaisewa encouraged them to recognize their worth and capabilities.
“Understand your potential and the significance of your choices. Regardless of what others may say about you, value your abilities. You were selected for this program to be change agents,” he concluded.