Amitesh Deo, the CEO of Waste Recyclers Fiji, honored his late mother and those who bravely face adversity during the prestigious 2024 Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) Awards held in Sydney. As a tribute, Deo wore a specially crafted shawl that represents a powerful narrative and deep symbolism.
The shawl, designed by Faruna Shehnaaz, the owner of Saniz Fashion in Nakasi, beautifully weaves together two culturally significant materials: a cherished sari belonging to Deo’s late mother, Pushpa Wati Deo, and traditional iTaukei tapa. The sari symbolizes resilience and the struggles of marginalized communities in Fiji, reflecting the life of Mrs. Deo, who was a domestic violence survivor and a staunch advocate for justice and equality. This legacy inspires Amitesh and motivated him to establish the Pacific Recycling Foundation.
Deo explained that the incorporation of iTaukei tapa material highlights the richness of Fiji’s culture and the harmonious diversity in its communities. “Together, these elements created a shawl that serves as a metaphor for the recycling sector in Fiji – resilient, transformative, and deeply rooted in collaboration,” he noted. He added that the shawl symbolizes Fiji’s multicultural identity, which is central to the mission of Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited (WRFL) and the Pacific Recycling Foundation.
At the awards ceremony, WRFL was nominated for the Improved Recycling System Award, marking an important occasion not only to celebrate sustainable practices but also to represent the authentic spirit, culture, resilience, and diversity of Fiji.
This heartwarming tribute emphasizes the strength found in community and family, while also showcasing the power of cultural heritage in inspiring positive change. Amitesh Deo continues to lead the way for sustainable practices in Fiji, demonstrating that personal stories of sacrifice and advocacy can fuel broader movements for justice and environmental stewardship.
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