The Fijian Drua has officially launched the Drua Foundation, a charitable arm dedicated to improving the lives of communities in Fiji through initiatives centered around rugby development, health, education, and social inclusivity. This launch comes after a year of planning, highlighting the club’s recognition of its role and influence within the country.
The Foundation not only aims to enhance community welfare but also funds the Drua Academy, an innovative program designed to nurture young rugby talent in the Under 16, Under 17, and Under 18 categories. The academy currently supports 30 boys aged under 16 and is set to expand to include more age groups and a girls’ team in the near future.
Mark Evans, the CEO of the Fijian Drua and a trustee of the Foundation, emphasized the responsibility that comes with the club’s growth. “The Drua Foundation is a way for the Club, our sponsors, partners, and well-wishers to contribute towards programs that sustainably benefit the Fijian people,” he stated. The Foundation will focus on specific areas including High Performance Pathways, Health & Community, and Social Impact, ensuring that funds are directed towards addressing key issues affecting the local population.
Evans acknowledged the Foundation’s mission to not only foster rugby talent but also to address broader health and social challenges facing many Fijians. He confirmed that tailored programs will be developed to suit the diverse needs of different community sectors.
Additional trustees include experienced figures such as James Sowane, Mosese Naivalu, and Naomi Vuibureta, along with the support of Olympic Gold Medal-winning Fiji 7s Coach Ben Ryan, who brings valuable expertise in rugby talent development.
The Drua Foundation encourages individuals and organizations to engage with their mission through donations, corporate giving, and other support avenues, creating a pathway for collective community improvement.
This initiative is a hopeful step towards enhancing social welfare in Fiji, utilizing rugby as a platform to bring about positive change and opportunity. The collaborative efforts of the Drua Foundation are poised to have a lasting impact on the youth and communities in the region, paving the way for a brighter future.
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