Vinaka Fiji continues to provide for the villages of the Yasawa Islands

Vinaka Fiji, established by South Sea Cruises Group in 2010, is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to giving back to the remote villages and communities of Fiji’s Yasawa Islands. The organisations’ primary goal is to provide support to these communities, which often lack necessities such as fresh water, power, education, and healthcare facilities. Vinaka Fiji carries out its mission through a combination of efforts including dedicating a percentage of South Sea Cruises Group revenue to Vinaka Fiji, facilitating voluntourism experiences for groups, and generating aid through various channels including working closely with non-governmental organisations.

Some of the key highlights for the 2022-2023 financial year include:

• South Sea Cruises Group brands contributed heavily with every Awesome Adventures Fiji Package sold, raising FJ$10 for Vinaka Fiji and Blue Lagoon Cruises guests donating over FJ$150,000 in the last financial year.
• Sourcing of FAO funding for restoration projects in 8 communities, with over 3,300 plants planted in six communities so far.
• Installing a Biogas system at Yasawa High School using a grant from the US Department of State, which converts animal waste to gas used for cooking.
• Collaborating with the Water for Woman program to establish a water committee aimed at improving water infrastructure in the region.
• Planting 200 trees in conjunction with the Ministry of Forestry in Malakua.
• Installing 16 bee hives in 8 communities, with the expectation of each hive producing up to 45kg of honey per year thereby generating income for the villages.
• Rebuilding the famous Lo’s Tea House on Nanuya Island, which was damaged in a storm.
• Providing sponsorship of FJ$75,000 to the Yasawa Rugby Union by way of equipment and uniforms as well as transportation for the teams to and from the mainland for games.
• Sourcing $50,000 of US AID to help preserve and replenish biodiversity in the region, including planting over 600 mangroves.

These efforts demonstrate Vinaka Fiji’s commitment to not only improving the quality of life for the communities of the Yasawa Islands but also ensuring sustainable practices are in place that contribute to the preservation and restoration of the natural environment in the area. The organisation's work is crucial in providing vital resources and support to these remote communities, making a positive impact on their lives.

* info@vinakafiji.org.fj
* AUS 1800 007 129; NZ 0800 293 766; International +679 999 5512
* Sonya at sonya@ssc.com.fj