A group of 47 students from Nadi, who received training from police officers, are now ready to take on leadership roles within their communities. These students, hailing from various schools in Nadi and Sigatoka, participated in a two-day Blue Light leadership training and practical skills development program held at Korovuto College in Nadi.
The initiative was organized by Blue Light, a registered charity based in New Zealand that collaborates with law enforcement to provide a variety of youth programs and activities. Blue Light aims to minimize the chances of young individuals becoming either offenders or victims of crime while also promoting better relationships between police, youth, parents, and the wider community.
On Wednesday, these 47 students celebrated their graduation from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa, urged the students to act as change-makers within their schools and communities. He emphasized the need for them to absorb the lessons learned during the training.
“Keep a close view of all that you have learned. We were brought together from various parts of Nadi because we see the potential in you as young leaders,” SSP Vaisewa said.
He highlighted the concerning activities that some young people engage in, including drug use, sexual offenses, assaults, burglary, and theft, which tarnish the image of youth in Fiji.
“Some of your peers have been involved in activities that threaten their safety. This creates a negative image of our youth today and poses a significant challenge for our beloved Fiji,” he cautioned.
The SSP encouraged the students to make positive choices, reminding them, “That is the path that some of your peers are following. You still have the opportunity to choose the right path.” He urged them to recognize their worth and their potential for making a positive impact.
“Know your potential and understand the importance of your choices. No matter what others say about you, be aware of your worth and capabilities. You were chosen for this program to be agents of change,” he concluded.