Last weekend, over 550 families in Fiji were the recipients of Diwali hampers through Westpac Fiji’s annual community initiative, executed in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Fiji. This effort underscores the bank’s dedication to supporting local communities and honoring the diverse cultural heritage of Fiji.
Shane Smith, CEO of Westpac Fiji, emphasized the importance of community and charitable contributions as part of their mission. He stated, “At Westpac, we believe in the power of community and giving back. This Diwali, we have once again partnered with Rotary Clubs across Fiji to support families most in need, continuing a tradition we are proud to uphold.”
Ravikash Chand, president of the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset, spoke to the impact of collaboration in their efforts. “Together, we are helping make Diwali a brighter occasion for those who might otherwise go without,” he noted. The distribution of hampers this year was organized by the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset alongside a broader network of Rotary across Fiji, with both Westpac employees and Rotarians volunteering to deliver these hampers to various areas, including Suva, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and Savusavu.
The Diwali hampers, valued at around $60 each, included essential grocery items and traditional sweets. One recipient, Avinash Chand from Navula, reflected on the positive impact of the hamper for his family of five, stating it was a “godsend.” He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance, mentioning, “I come from a family that is not very well-off. The hamper was a blessing from God. I do a little farming and carpentry work to earn money for our family, so it was a big help.”
Since 2020, Westpac has joined forces with Rotary to distribute more than 2,250 hampers, clearly showcasing a long-standing commitment to assisting those in need during important festive times. These initiatives not only ease the burdens faced by families struggling to celebrate but also strengthen the spirit of unity and kindness that epitomizes the Diwali festivities in Fiji. This partnership serves as a powerful testament to the positive impact that collaborative community efforts can achieve, particularly during a season rich in cultural significance.