Manasa Ragigia has made a significant life change, moving from being an electrician in Fiji to becoming a full-time volunteer with Camp Coolamatong in Victoria, Australia. For years, he worked in a profession often seen as stable and rewarding, yet he found himself unfulfilled, feeling a persistent calling to do more meaningful work.
“The tug in my heart had been there for years,” Mr. Ragigia reflected, indicating that his decision to leave behind his profession was driven by a deeper purpose. This heartfelt conviction led him to volunteer with a Christian organization focusing on youth ministry. Camp Coolamatong, often referred to as Camp Coola, is situated a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne and is dedicated to helping young people discover their self-worth through various activities.
Originally from Buakama Village in Yasawa, Fiji, Mr. Ragigia recalls how his upbringing taught him the value of connection and community. Growing up surrounded by tourists who flocked to Fiji to experience its beauty, he was struck by their desire not only for adventure but for genuine connection. Unlike many of his peers, who aspired toward conventional careers like medicine or law, he felt drawn to spiritual service and community work, particularly through Bible study and fellowship groups.
Having trained as an electrician initially out of a desire for job security, he began to volunteer with Scripture Union Fiji, a role that profoundly impacted his perspective on service. “It was no longer just about fixing appliances; it was about helping to mend lives,” he explained. His transition to Australia to work with Scripture Union Victoria was a natural progression of his spiritual journey.
At Camp Coola, Mr. Ragigia finds fulfillment in mentoring young campers from diverse backgrounds, many of whom are experiencing challenges related to identity and belonging. His warm and compassionate demeanor has made a lasting impression on the youths, many of whom encounter someone genuinely supportive for the first time.
Though this new path has involved significant personal sacrifice, as he relies on donations to support his volunteer work, Mr. Ragigia feels he has found his true calling. He actively participates in school assemblies and small group discussions, encouraging youth to confront their fears and self-doubt. His experience reflects not just a personal journey but an exciting opportunity to inspire others, creating spaces where young individuals can feel valued and understood.
This narrative not only sheds light on Mr. Ragigia’s remarkable transformation but also serves as an inspiration to many. It emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s inner calling and the impact of compassion-driven service in the community. Such stories highlight the diverse paths individuals take in search of purpose and how those choices can lead to meaningful contributions in society.
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