A new publication titled “Sex, Dating, Relationships and Everything in Between” has been introduced to help young individuals navigate the complexities of relationships and establish healthy boundaries. This initiative reflects input from Fijian youth, community leaders, and pastors, prominently featuring contributions from Australian Pastor Letitia Shelton, who has been instrumental in driving this project.
Pastor Shelton, who has personal ties to Fiji from her childhood, is committed to fostering open discussions around challenging and often taboo topics. With 25 years of experience running a charity in Australia that assists abused women and girls, she recognized a significant gap in resources available to young people raised in environments that do not model healthy relationships.
The need for dialogue about sensitive issues such as teenage pregnancies, consent, and abuse is urgent. Shelton pointed out that many youths come from abusive households and lack positive relationship examples. Each chapter of the book is enriched with narratives from local Fijians, alongside podcasts that capture real-life experiences. A noteworthy chapter by Dr. Seriana Wood provides vital insights for young individuals facing unexpected pregnancies.
Demonstrating her dedication, Shelton undertook a personal challenge, cycling 6,000 kilometers across the United States to raise $58,000 for the project. Her efforts have resulted in the printing of 15,000 copies, which will be distributed for free through schools, churches, and youth organizations.
This initiative comes at a time when Fiji faces a growing concern regarding teenage pregnancies, with alarming statistics showing a significant number of young girls becoming mothers each year. The collaboration among health professionals, community leaders, and educators highlights a unified effort to combat this trend through education and open dialogue.
Shelton emphasizes that silence around these issues exposes youths to misinformation, particularly from social media and pornography. She encourages parents and community leaders to take an active role in discussing relationships and available support systems, which is crucial for empowering young people to make informed choices.
Lauded as a pioneering resource in Fiji, this book seeks to dismantle taboos and promote safe, healthy relationships, offering a beacon of hope for a more informed and supportive future for Fijian youth. By emphasizing education and community involvement, there is a bright prospect for young individuals to navigate their lives in a safe and understanding environment.