The Foundation for the Education of Needy Children (FENC) in Fiji has forged a new partnership with It Works Naturally (IWN) NZ Ltd, a New Zealand-based eco-friendly product manufacturer, through a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to enhance poverty alleviation efforts in Fiji by channeling a portion of IWN’s profits from local sales to support FENC’s wide-ranging programs.
IWN, known for its environmentally friendly cleaning products, including soaps and sanitizers made from natural ingredients, intends to begin exporting these products to Fiji as part of the initial phase of the partnership, which is expected to span 12 to 18 months. This phase focuses on engaging with local wholesalers and retailers that have previously supported FENC to create a robust distribution framework.
Following this initial period, the partnership plans to venture into a local manufacturing facility for IWN products, located within a tax-free zone, pending necessary approvals from government authorities. This strategic move not only aims to stimulate Fiji’s economy but also aims to secure a sustainable funding source for FENC, which primarily assists the most vulnerable children by providing essential resources such as stationery and school bags.
John Samy, the founder and chairperson of FENC, highlighted the significance of this partnership in addressing the foundation’s financial challenges while enabling it to expand its assistance to more at-risk communities across Fiji. The foundation has faced increasing demand for its services, despite ongoing government grants and donations, which has sometimes led to the difficult decision of turning away children in need.
Hepke Van Der Luis, the founder of IWN, expressed confidence in this partnership, emphasizing its potential to not only ease FENC’s financial burdens but also to empower communities significantly.
FENC’s ongoing initiatives reflect a long-standing commitment to improving the lives of needy children, a goal that is increasingly relevant given the rising challenges families face in securing necessary educational resources. By collaborating with organizations such as IWN and emphasizing local support, FENC is positioning itself to enhance its outreach and sustainability, fostering hope for a brighter future for Fiji’s youth.
The commitment shown by both FENC and IWN represents a positive step towards addressing poverty and educational inequalities within the community, highlighting that collective efforts and sustainable solutions can indeed lead to lasting impact.