The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) recently celebrated the graduation of 40 participants from the Brighter Minds Holiday Program, an initiative aimed at enriching the lives of the children of its staff members in Suva. This program, organized by Brighter Minds Fiji, provides a nurturing and engaging environment for children aged between five and 15, where they partake in various activities designed to enhance focus, confidence, and essential life skills over a span of nine days.
FDB Chairman Damend Gounder emphasized the importance of developing resilience in children, stating, “Brighter Minds is all about making the child strong, building inner resilience, and preparing them for a much better and stronger adulthood.” He stressed that it is the responsibility of parents, guardians, and community members to give back to the younger generation.
The positive impact of the Brighter Minds Program has been significant, with over 140 trainers across Fiji having provided the program to more than 800 children, including those in remote areas, entirely free of charge. Chief guest and FDB director Emele Duituturaga highlighted the importance of investing in the growth of children, declaring that “a Fiji where every child’s mind shines brightly definitely contributes to a stronger nation.”
The graduation ceremony also underscored FDB’s ongoing dedication to programs that positively affect both its employees and their families. This initiative, initiated by Mr. Gounder’s Kimaya Foundation, has garnered recognition from the Government for its role in equipping children with critical skills such as critical thinking, emotional resilience, and positive social behavior.
As more programs like Brighter Minds continue to emerge, they hold the promise of fostering a generation equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and resilience, contributing to the overall strength and development of Fiji’s future.
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