Residents, staff, and guests congregated at Pearce Home on Butt St, Suva, on Tuesday, October 7, for a delightful celebration that intertwined three significant events — the International Day for Older Persons, Fiji Day, and Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday. This heartwarming occasion united the Pearce Home community with families and partners to honor the elders of Fiji while marking important milestones of faith and national pride.
The festivities commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the Home’s newly completed office, made possible by the dedicated efforts of Westpac Bank, which provided substantial labor support. The new office is set to enhance administrative functions while offering an improved and more comfortable environment for the staff and the residents alike.
Following this, attendees were treated to the blessing of the newly established Peace Garden. Funded by Peter Mazey, the executive chair of the Fiji National Sports Commission, this tranquil garden offers a space for reflection and relaxation, symbolizing harmony and gratitude within the Pearce Home community.
Once the formal proceedings concluded, everyone enjoyed 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 served to commemorate the observance of Prophet’s Day, which was celebrated in September.
Mohammed Hassan Khan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and supporters for their ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being of Fiji’s senior citizens. Special events like this reflect a growing recognition of the vital role that elderly citizens play in society, reaffirming the importance of community connection and support.
Similar initiatives have taken place throughout Fiji, focusing on improving the quality of life for the elderly. Events like the Elderly Recreational Day held in Suva earlier this year highlighted the government’s dedication to reducing loneliness among seniors and promoting their involvement in community activities. These gatherings have become crucial for reinforcing the message that aging is a time for dignity, engagement, and respect.
The recent celebrations not only honored the elders but also served as a reminder of Fiji’s rich cultural tapestry, where interfaith harmony and communal respect flourish. Through collaborative efforts and expressions of gratitude, the elderly are increasingly acknowledged as integral contributors to society, fostering a hopeful outlook for their inclusion and care in the community.