Last month’s Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North, which lasted a week, successfully raised $317,000. Festival committee president Zaheen Ibrahim expressed that the months of preparation were instrumental in the success of the event, benefiting the organizers, volunteers, and sponsors, particularly the festival committee.
Ms. Ibrahim announced the record amount during a thanksgiving event held on Saturday in Labasa. The festival took place at Subrail Park in Labasa from August 31 to September 7. She made history as the first female president of the festival committee.
She emphasized the importance of the relationships built with volunteers and supporters that contributed to the festival’s success. “It is a time to appreciate the hard work, resilience, and dedication of our committee members,” she remarked. “Our committee overcame all challenges during the preparation phase, and we acknowledge their efforts tonight.”
Special plaques and certificates were awarded to committee members, and Ms. Ibrahim recognized the significant contributions of major sponsor Vodafone Fiji, along with other corporate partners who supported the festival financially. “Without our sponsors, this festival would not have been successful,” she stressed.
Ms. Ibrahim expressed her hopes for continued sponsorship in the future. Chief guest Nilesh Singh, head of recharge and operations at Vodafone, confirmed the company’s commitment to ongoing partnership, stating that community outreach fosters a connection with grassroots organizations.
She highlighted the effort to enhance the quality of the festival by selecting talented contestants who showcased their skills throughout the week. Acknowledgment was given to the families of contestants for their support in motivating them to excel.
Funding from the festival charity chest has already contributed to projects such as the construction of a restroom facility at Subrail Park ground two and the donation of musical equipment to Nabala Secondary School. Additional projects are set to commence soon.