TravelOnline, an Australian tour operator, has received special recognition for its contributions to the Koroipita Model Town in Fiji, with a street named in its honor by the board of trustees. This acknowledgment evokes gratitude from the Koroipita community, which has benefitted greatly from TravelOnline’s efforts.
The prominent operator, in collaboration with its ground partner Rosie Holidays, has transported over 27,000 passengers to Fiji annually and invested a total of $250,000 in the Koroipita community. Their commitment to uplifting local residents is evident through various initiatives. For instance, in 2019, the TravelOnline team participated in a community outreach project aimed at building homes within the model township. Koroipita, located near Lautoka, currently comprises over 300 houses accommodating 1,330 residents, predominantly from low-income families.
In a notable effort to create long-term economic opportunities, TravelOnline has engaged the Koroipita Micro-enterprise Sewing Boutique to craft unique cotton beach bags, which each client receives upon their arrival in Fiji. Since reopening borders in 2023, this project has generated more than $250,000 in revenue and created full-time employment for four women in the community, showcasing the positive impact tourism can have on local economic advancement.
TravelOnline’s managing director, Glenn Checkley, expressed a deep awareness of the challenges posed by COVID-19 on Fiji’s tourism sector. He emphasized their commitment to supporting local livelihoods through donations of new sewing machines and training provided in collaboration with organizations like Family Advancement Ministries and Sewaid.
Tony Whitton, managing director at Rosie Holidays and a trustee of Koroipita Model Town, reinforced the transformative power of tourism in enhancing economic stability and social welfare throughout Fiji. Paul Forrest, general manager of Koroipita Model Town, highlighted the initiative’s significance, stating it not only provides a livelihood for local families but also imparts valuable skills to the younger generation, opening pathways to employment or entrepreneurship in the garment industry.
This collaboration exemplifies the meaningful interaction between tourism businesses and local communities, fostering resilience and growth. The future looks promising for initiatives that align business objectives with community welfare, indicating that sustainable practices can lead to lasting improvements in the lives of Fijians.
In a globalizing world, TravelOnline’s commitment to Koroipita offers hope, reminding us that collaborative efforts can significantly uplift communities, even in challenging times.
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