IF we want tourism to keep doing good, we need to back the people driving it forward.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka shared this during the 2025 Sustainable Tourism Accelerator Graduation ceremony in Lautoka on Monday.
The Sustainable Tourism YGAP Accelerator program is an initiative designed to empower change makers and entrepreneurs by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and mentorship needed to lead sustainable ventures and create lasting social impact in their communities.
While officiating at the event, Mr Gavoka praised the accelerator programme for turning national policy into local impact.
“We’re not just talking about change — we’re making it happen from the ground up,” he said.
He reflected on the success stories behind this year’s participants as a clear sign of progress under the National Sustainable Tourism Framework, a key part of Fiji’s National Development Plan.
The 2025 Accelerator cohort includes 12 driven entrepreneurs focused on sustainability, cultural preservation, climate adaptation, and inclusive growth.
These ventures reflect a wider move toward tourism that supports both people and the environment.
Mr Gavoka highlighted the program’s strong results: 92 per cent of participants completed the training, and 91 per cent have launched businesses, already making a difference in their communities—creating jobs and building resilience across the country.
He commended the program’s success to strong partnerships, including support from Tourism Fiji, the Duavata Sustainable Tourism Collective, and private sector allies like Talanoa Treks and Bula Coffee.
He said these collaborations created a vital support network for up-and-coming tourism leaders.
Mr Gavoka urged both public and private sectors to keep investing in programmes like the Accelerator, which align with Fiji’s broader tourism goals and also support climate action, gender equity and inclusive growth.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated June 11, 2025
