About 40 volunteers from the Rosie Travel Group of Companies dedicated their day to community service in Koroipita Township, near Lautoka, in celebration of World Tourism Day. Employees from Rosie Holidays, Rosie Outsourcing, Likuliku Lagoon Resort, and Malolo Island Resort took part in hands-on activities, contributing to the construction of timber windows and doors, painting houses that are still under construction, and planting over 50 palm trees for the township’s beautification program.
Vikash Chand, the corporate social responsibility representative for Rosie Travel Group, highlighted this year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” He stated, “We marked the day by serving at Koroipita, a settlement with 1,400 residents who enjoy cyclone-safe homes and family advancement programs.” The team’s efforts included extensive landscaping and construction work for new homes at K4, exemplifying the company’s commitment to supporting local communities.
Chand emphasized the essential role of tourism in bolstering local communities, reflecting on their visit to the Expedia-Rosie Learning Centre, opened last year, and the Koroipita micro-enterprise sewing factory, which has secured contracts to produce 120,000 cotton beach bags for major Australian clients.
Ranjini Pratap, acting general manager of Koroipita Model Township, praised Rosie Holidays for their long-term investment in the community since 2005, noting significant contributions such as homes, pathways, and playgrounds. She expressed satisfaction in witnessing the enthusiasm of the next generation from the Rosie and Ahura Resorts family in serving the community, underscoring the positive impact of tourism on Fiji, especially in remote areas.
Founded by Peter Drysdale, Koroipita has over 350 homes and supports 1,400 residents from low-income families, providing benefits like cyclone-certified homes, running water, electricity, and various community programs designed to elevate living standards.
This initiative serves as a reminder of the powerful role tourism can play in fostering sustainable development and community enhancement, providing much-needed support to families while enhancing the aesthetic and functional attributes of living environments. The ongoing efforts of organizations like Rosie Travel Group demonstrate hope for continued positive change in local communities across Fiji.