In rural Fiji - 75% of children live in poverty

In a destination more synonymous with paradise than poverty, the harsh truth is that in the rural villages, over 75% of families live below the poverty line and only 50% of the rural population have access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation. Schools are in a poor condition and devoid of basic materials and many children drop out of education early. Less than 5% of children in rural areas have access to early years’ education. Access to organised youth schemes, sport and extra-curricular activities are limited to non-existent. In February 2016 Fiji witnessed it’s worst cyclone ever recorded. Over 400 schools were damaged, 50,000 families displaced and entire communities destroyed. Fiji could take a generation to recover and children are in dire need of long term support.

In September 2018 I will travel to Fiji and make a difference by helping to support these schools and the pupils. I will stay in a remote Fijian village with few utilities and volunteer in the local school helping with English, maths and sports coaching. I love spending time with children and knowing I can help them receive a better education makes me want to go even more. I hope to achieve a better knowledge of the Fijian culture and want to fully immerse myself in their lifestyles to experience something I believe will be truly worthwhile.

'Think Pacific' work in direct partnership with the Fijian government and the money I raise will go towards school, kindergarten and sports resources for the project schools. Teacher training and the cost of running sports events and camps for school children are also helped along by our contribution.

In order for me to go on this volunteer project, I have to raise £2000 + flight money. This will be a big challenge for me, but one that I am willing to throw myself into. I will be organising fundraising events over the next year to help me raise the money, but any donations no matter how small would be so greatly appreciated by me and these Fijian children!