Herb Feith’s legacy still going strong in Fiji
17 October 2011
Since 1967, Australian Volunteers International (AVI) has managed 222 volunteer assignments in Fiji; improving the capacity of Fijians and Fijian institutions, and peacefully managing the complex social and economic challenges underlying the process of development.
In recognising this great achievement and AVI’s 60 years of international volunteering around the world, AVI’s Fiji office held a celebration to reflect, celebrate and acknowledge the work of over 9000 Australians and hundreds of organisations and communities that have made a real difference in over 70 countries around the globe, and in particular the amazing work that has taken place in the 44 years AVI have worked in partnership with the communities of Fiji.
The event took place at AVI’s Fijian office in Suva on Friday 14 October, and included guest speakers Acting Australian High Commissioner, Judith Robinson and AVI Executive, David Jones, who explained how AVI volunteers have assisted in improving capacities in education, governance, health, work skills development, environment and infrastructure.
St Giles Psychiatric Hospital’s Australian volunteer Occupational Therapist, Aleisha Carroll, shared her experiences about living and working in Fiji.
“I have learnt a lot about myself, the role of the volunteer and development, and also the role that AusAID plays in the mental health sector in Fiji,” she said.
“I didn’t expect to be able to contribute and play a role in some massive changes.”
AVI’s Fiji Country Manager, Leo Buckles, said it was important to reflect on the positive contributions of the past 44 years, and to also acknowledge the valuable work that is currently being done by AVI’s in-country volunteers.
“One area of focus in AVI’s current strategy for working with Fijian and regional non-government bodies has been to increase participation and social inclusion for vulnerable groups, including women, youth and the disabled,” he said.
“As a result, many recent volunteer placements have had a capacity building focus with organisations that provide services and advocate on behalf of the marginalised and disenfranchised organisations.”
“These volunteers have participated actively in the collective belief and commitment of AVI, the people and the Government of Fiji to improving the lives of the nation’s main assets - its people,” he said.
Celebrating 60 years of international volunteering
On 16 June 1951, Herb Feith, the first official Australian international volunteer, set sail from Port Melbourne to start his volunteer placement in Indonesia. This journey inspired international volunteering around the globe and the creation of the Volunteer Graduate Scheme and the Overseas Service Bureau, now known as Australian Volunteers International.
Photo: AVI Staff with Australian Acting High Commissioner, Judith Robinson (Second from left)
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