Amitesh Deo, the chief executive of Waste Recyclers Fiji, honored his late mother and those facing hardships at the distinguished 2024 Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) Awards in Sydney. In a heartfelt tribute, he wore a shawl that told a powerful story and symbolized the struggles and resilience of marginalized communities.
The shawl was designed by Faruna Shehnaaz, the owner of Saniz Fashion in Nakasi, and amalgamates two culturally significant materials: a sari once owned by Deo’s mother, Pushpa Wati Deo, and traditional iTaukei tapa fabric. The sari serves as a testament to Mrs. Deo’s resilience as a domestic violence survivor and her relentless fight for justice and equality. This personal history motivated Amitesh to establish the Pacific Recycling Foundation.
Deo explained that the inclusion of the iTaukei tapa reflected the richness of Fijian culture and the harmonious coexistence of its communities. He described the shawl as a metaphor for Fiji’s recycling sector—resilient, transformative, and rooted in collaboration. “This is not just about the garment; it is about the values it embodies—resilience, justice, and unity,” he stated.
Waste Recyclers Fiji was nominated for the Improved Recycling System Award at the event, which celebrated sustainable practices while also showcasing Fiji’s authentic culture, resilience, and diversity.
This acknowledgment not only highlights individual stories of triumph over adversity but also emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration in the face of challenges, ultimately fostering hope for a sustainable and inclusive future for the communities of Fiji.
Leave a comment