Forty-seven students from Nadi, who received training from police officers, are now equipped to assume leadership roles within their communities. The students, hailing from various schools in Nadi and Sigatoka, participated in a two-day Blue Light leadership training program held at Korovuto College in Nadi.
This initiative was organized with the support of Blue Light, a registered charity from New Zealand that partners with police to provide a range of programs and activities aimed at youth. The primary objective of Blue Light is to decrease the chances of young people becoming offenders or victims of crime, while also promoting improved relationships among police, youth, parents, and the broader community.
On Wednesday, these 47 students celebrated their graduation from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa, urged the students to become change agents within their schools and communities. He emphasized the importance of retaining the lessons they have learned during the training.
“Keep a close view of all that you have learned. We were brought together from various parts of Nadi because we see the potential in you as young leaders,” SSP Vaisewa stated. He highlighted concerns about some youth becoming involved in risky behaviors, such as drug use, sexual offences, assault, burglary, and theft.
SSP Vaisewa cautioned the students against these negative influences, stating, “That is the path that some of your peers are following. You still have the opportunity to choose the right path.” He encouraged them to recognize their worth and potential, advising, “Know your potential and understand the importance of your choices. No matter what others say about you, be aware of your worth and capabilities. You were chosen for this program to be agents of change.”