In a touching example of global compassion, Lifeline Community Service, a charitable organization from Belfast, Northern Ireland, played a crucial role in supporting the educational aspirations of students at Lelean Memorial School in Nausori during the 1980s. An article published in The Fiji Times on August 24, 1984, highlighted the altruistic endeavors of this group.
For over two decades, Lifeline organized various fundraising activities, remarkably baking and selling 1,600 cakes to raise funds. Rob Pattison, a committed science teacher at Lelean Memorial, expressed his gratitude for Lifeline’s continuous support, noting the significant impact it had on the school community. “The help they’ve extended to their community resonates deeply with us here in Fiji,” he remarked.
Originating at Portadown College in Belfast, Lifeline primarily focused on aiding victims of local conflict. The organization, despite facing challenges at home, extended its generosity across borders, showcasing a commitment to global educational support.
Ratu Josua Toganivalu, Fiji’s High Commissioner to Great Britain at the time, visited Portadown College to express Lelean’s gratitude for Lifeline’s contributions. As a symbol of appreciation, he presented a traditional piece of masi cloth from Lelean’s students and received a school plaque in return, representing the enduring friendship between the two schools.
The visit included a poignant moment when Ratu Josua was honored with a traditional Fijian song, coordinated by Portadown College teacher Jennifer Douglas, who prepared students to perform the song as a tribute to their Fijian peers.
Lifeline’s contributions played a vital role in enhancing Lelean Memorial School’s educational resources, providing essential items such as magazine subscriptions, calculators, and computer books. Inspired by Mr. Pattison’s article in an international teachers’ magazine, Lifeline’s students initiated fundraising projects focusing on specific requirements at Lelean, particularly in science education.
“The initial donation came from their combined efforts in baking and selling cakes,” Mr. Pattison shared. They have continued their support through various fundraising activities, including an upcoming walk-a-thon to further aid the school.