Laisenia Seru, an assistant Sports Development Officer with the Fiji National Sports Commission, underscored the significance of initiating sports programs within rural communities during the TAFISA Certified Leadership Program held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The four-day workshop provided Seru with insights into the intersection of leadership and community needs, particularly in his work with local programs.
He emphasized that the discussions on inclusivity challenged his previous perceptions of leadership, focusing not just on logistical elements but also on understanding barriers such as race, gender, and resource limitations. “This experience made me think more from the participant’s viewpoint, considering their needs and how to structure programs effectively,” Seru explained.
The workshop’s emphasis on age-appropriate sports and wellness programs resonated with Seru’s responsibilities in the central rural division, which encompasses areas like Naitasiri and Rewa. With plans for a youth program in the coming week, he aims to incorporate lessons on supporting vulnerable groups and addressing concerns related to drug use and HIV awareness.
As a certified educator with the Oceania Sports Education Programme (OSEP), Seru is eager to apply what he learned into his own courses, enhancing their focus on community needs. Reflecting on the collaborative nature of the training, he noted, “Learning from others and sharing ideas transformed my approach to sports leadership.”
This initiative not only highlights the ongoing commitment to improving sports development in Fiji but also fosters a hopeful environment for the future. As sports leaders receive training to better serve their communities, the ripple effects could foster greater inclusivity and engagement in sporting activities, paving the way for a healthier society.
The sentiments echoed at the workshop are aligned with the broader objectives of recent programs aimed at enhancing sports leadership capacities within Fiji, emphasizing the value of inclusivity and community involvement in sports development.
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