More than 550 families in Fiji received Diwali hampers last weekend through Westpac Fiji’s annual community initiative, organized in partnership with the Rotary Club of Fiji. This effort exemplifies the bank’s commitment to supporting local communities and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Fiji.
Shane Smith, CEO of Westpac Fiji, expressed the importance of community and charity in their mission. “At Westpac, we believe in the power of community and giving back,” he said. “This Diwali, we have once again partnered with Rotary Clubs across Fiji to support families most in need, continuing a tradition we are proud to uphold.”
Ravikash Chand, president of the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset, highlighted the significance of collaboration in making a difference. “Together, we are helping make Diwali a brighter occasion for those who might otherwise go without,” he stated. This year’s distribution was organized by the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset through the broader Rotary Fiji network, with both Westpac employees and Rotarians volunteering to deliver the hampers to various locations including Suva, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and Savusavu.
The Diwali hampers, valued at around $60 each, contained essential grocery items and sweets. Avinash Chand, a recipient from Navula, described the hamper as a “godsend” for his family of five, expressing deep gratitude for the assistance. “I come from a family that is not very well-off. The hamper was a blessing from God. I do a little farming and carpentry work to earn money for our family, so it was a big help,” he shared.
Since 2020, Westpac has collaborated with Rotary to distribute over 2,250 hampers, demonstrating a sustained commitment to helping those in need during significant festive periods. Such initiatives not only alleviate immediate concerns for families struggling to celebrate but also reinforce the spirit of unity and kindness that defines the Diwali celebration in Fiji. This partnership serves as a powerful reminder of the positive changes that can occur when communities come together, especially at a time so rich in cultural significance.