Last Saturday, netball players in Suva engaged in a community outreach initiative by participating in a clean-up drive rather than their regular court activities. This event, organized by the Suva Netball Association (SNA), saw more than 50 players join forces from 6 am to 7 am, collecting rubbish along the picturesque shoreline from the Muanikau Road junction to the National Netball Centre.
This clean-up activity signals the launch of a five-week community program by SNA, each weekend focusing on distinct issues such as environmental conservation, personal health, and drug awareness. According to SNA secretary Justice Volahiga, the core aim is to encourage members to extend their involvement beyond the netball court: “We want to instill civic pride, compassion, and environmental awareness while promoting healthier life choices,” he stated.
The clean-up was executed in partnership with the Suva City Council, with SNA president Alumeci Sachs leading the initiative alongside social committee members. “It was encouraging to see our players, especially the younger ones, step up and contribute in such a practical way. They showed real heart,” noted Sachs.
Volahiga added that this community initiative aligns with SNA’s broader development philosophy, which focuses on empowering women and children while encouraging responsible behavior. The support from NewWorld IGA, backing the program, was also acknowledged.
Each subsequent weekend will highlight different themes, with the upcoming focus on personal health, featuring free health screenings provided in collaboration with Medical Services Pacific. Volahiga expressed that these community efforts are designed to create a long-lasting impact, stating that SNA aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are not only strong players but also active and engaged citizens.
This clean-up initiative joins similar community engagement efforts seen throughout Fiji, such as programs led by the Grasshoppers Netball Club, which recently conducted their own clean-up to foster community pride and responsibility. The collective actions of these organizations reflect a growing commitment to environmental stewardship and social engagement among youth, fostering hope for a more responsible future in their communities.
These activities highlight the importance of collaborative efforts in building a cleaner environment, showing that even small contributions can lead to significant positive change.
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