Abdul Zorhab, the founder of the One Nation Our People Youth Foundation (ONOP), is underscoring a simple conviction: young people have the power to turn challenges into opportunities and to shape a brighter future. He shared this message as ONOP marked International Youth Day with a focus on empowerment and community service.
Established in 2021, ONOP has grown from a small band of 15 members to a registered organization powered by 35 dedicated youth volunteers. Zorhab explained that the foundation’s mission extends beyond handing out groceries or aid; it aims to uplift communities, amplify youth voices, and cultivate leadership grounded in courage and compassion. He noted the personal sacrifices his members make—giving up luxuries, family time, and personal enjoyment—to serve others. They have faced sun and rain, heavy workloads, long hours on paperwork, and meticulous event coordination, all in service of a common heartbeat: making a lasting impact.
A notable milestone for ONOP has been recognition by the International Peace Youth Group, a development Zorhab sees as validation of the foundation’s work and its growing reach. He highlighted that ONOP’s impact spans multiple communities across Fiji, including Lautoka, Tavua, Nadi, Rakiraki, Sigatoka, Suva, Nausori, and Labasa, where the organization’s efforts are felt through youth-led initiatives and communal projects.
ONOP’s approach aligns with a broader philosophy of sustainable development. In addition to immediate relief, the foundation emphasizes long-term solutions that empower individuals to become self-sufficient, such as backyard gardening programs that help families generate ongoing income. Beyond food security, ONOP’s projects touch on climate-conscious programs, homelessness relief, animal welfare, youth mental health, and leadership training. The narrative of Zorhab’s journey—marked by financial hardship and personal sacrifice, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic—serves as a testament to resilience and the impact of compassionate action.
Looking ahead, Zorhab aims to complete his education, grow his family, and continue expanding ONOP’s reach. He also has aspirations of entering Parliament to advocate for the vulnerable and to promote sustainable development on a national scale. His message to youth remains steadfast: believe in your potential to effect change, seek out like-minded partners, view setbacks as part of the journey, and remember that every act of kindness matters.
In a wider sense, Zorhab’s story reflects the power of grassroots leadership to catalyze meaningful social change. It offers a hopeful example for other communities seeking to transform adversity into opportunities through youth-led service, collaboration, and sustainable programs.
Summary: Abdul Zorhab’s ONOP Youth Foundation is a growing Fiji-based NGO that empowers young people to lead and serve, emphasizing long-term solutions like backyard gardening, climate and mental health initiatives, and leadership training. Recognized by the International Peace Youth Group, the foundation operates across major towns and continues to expand its reach and impact.
Additional notes for editors:
– Consider highlighting upcoming ONOP events or calls for volunteers and donors to sustain momentum ahead of future International Youth Day programs.
– If possible, include a short quote from a beneficiary or youth volunteer to add a personal perspective.
– A brief explainer on how backyard gardening programs are implemented could help readers understand the sustainable aspect of ONOP’s work.
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