Residents, staff, and guests gathered at Pearce Home on Butt Street in Suva on Tuesday, October 7, to celebrate a unique event merging the International Day for Older Persons, Fiji Day, and the birthday of Prophet Mohammed. This joyous occasion brought together the Pearce Home community, families, and partners in a heartfelt tribute to the elders of Fiji, while also reflecting important milestones of faith and national pride.
The festivities kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new office at Pearce Home, made possible through the generous support of Westpac Bank, which provided substantial labor assistance. This new facility is expected to enhance the administrative functions of the Home and create a more comfortable environment for both staff and residents.
Following the formal inauguration, attendees were invited to the blessing of a newly created Peace Garden, funded by Peter Mazey, executive chair of the Fiji National Sports Commission. This serene space is designed for reflection and relaxation, embodying the principles of harmony and gratitude within the Pearce Home community.
The celebration continued with a special lunch featuring a delicious chicken palau, generously donated by Maulana Fayaz Khan and the family of Aisha Learning Centre in Koronivia. This meal also commemorated Prophet’s Day, observed in September, adding an extra layer of significance to the day’s events.
Mohammed Hassan Khan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, expressed heartfelt thanks to all donors, volunteers, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of Fiji’s senior citizens. Events like these highlight the growing understanding of the essential role that elderly citizens play in society, reinforcing the importance of community support and connection.
Similar initiatives throughout Fiji aim to improve the quality of life for the elderly, such as the Elderly Recreational Day held in Suva earlier this year, underscoring the government’s commitment to reducing loneliness and promoting engagement in community activities. These gatherings foster the message that aging is a time for dignity, involvement, and respect.
The recent celebrations not only honored the elderly but also showcased Fiji’s rich cultural diversity, where harmony among different faiths and mutual respect thrive. With collaborative efforts and expressions of gratitude, there is a growing acknowledgement of the elderly as vital contributors to society, cultivating a positive future for their inclusion and care within the community.