Every youth group was honored as a winner during the recent “Qiri kava” (drum beating) competition, with the Kalekana settlement team from Lami taking home the top prize of $1,000. The event, organized by ARUKA Fiji, was held on Saturday at the Raiwaqa basketball court and saw participation from four of the ten registered teams.
Inoke Drauna, ARUKA Fiji’s founder, noted that the competition aimed to empower young individuals and provide them with an opportunity to showcase their talents as the year wraps up. Additionally, the event was instrumental in raising awareness about crucial support services, including child protection and HIV awareness.
Drauna emphasized the significance of such initiatives in engaging youth who often lack representation in community events. By creating these platforms, not only are their talents highlighted, but the participants are also connected with essential services that foster a sense of community and support.
The lively atmosphere of the day and the acknowledgment of each team contributed to a spirit of camaraderie and collaboration among participants, illustrating the tremendous potential for youth to make meaningful contributions to society. This event not only celebrated talent but also reinforced the importance of community involvement and support networks for young people.