HOMEGROWN construction company Cope Construction Pte Ltd recently celebrated 30 years of operation paying a fitting tribute to its late founder Satya Sekran.
In an emotional speech to guests, staff, family and friends during the celebratory reception at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Suman Sekran, widow of the late Mr Sekran, described the moment as “bittersweet”.
“One year five months ago, we lost a remarkable leader and my dear husband, Satya Sekran, who served as our chairperson,” Ms Sekran said.
founder Satya Sekran, paid an emotional tribute to her late husband. Picture:
SUPPLIED
“Together, we embarked on this journey from day one, sharing a vision to not just build structures, but to create lasting legacies.
“His passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to cope has left an indelible mark on all of us.
“I know he is here in spirit standing right beside me. As he always did.
“When we laid the foundation of this company, we had a dream to transform communities and enhance lives.
“From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a leader in the construction sector, completing projects that tell a story of hard work, perseverance and collaboration.
“Satya was instrumental in shaping our values and guiding our growth.”
The late Mr Sekran was remembered by his staff as not just a boss, but a mentor, guide and a father figure, as Cope general manager Projects & Operations Ronald Lal shared during his speech.
“Satya was a humble man. He carried himself without arrogance, always open to listening, always fair. He believed that honesty, transparency, and integrity were nonnegotiable — not just in business, but in life,” Mr Lal said.
“He also believed deeply in giving back.
“Through Cope’s social corporate responsibility, Satya went out of his way to donate generously — whether to schools, communities recovering from natural disasters, or other worthy causes. He felt that success comes with responsibility.”
With Ms Satya now leading the company following her husband’s passing, the company continues the legacy and vision left by its founder in the delivery of quality buildings and in contributing the economy.
In an equally emotional tribute to her late father, company director Sheena Sekran recounted with fondness the early years.
“We may not have photographs or videos that capture the humble beginnings of this company — no glossy images of the first sites or early projects.
“But those moments live vividly in my memory. And tonight, I want to take you down that memory lane through my eyes,” she said.
“I can still recall the smell of wet cement and the sharp scent of fresh paint on newly built walls. I remember the sound of hammers, the hum of generators, and my father’s steady presence — always there, guiding, teaching, and building.
“Those were the early days when every wall carried both hope and sacrifice.
“My father’s care for his workers went far beyond the work site. He believed that a company was built on people, not just projects. I remember my parents, late at night, preparing homemade meals for the employees who stayed back for overtime. For them, it wasn’t about meal allowances — it was about gratitude, care, and togetherness.
“Those shared meals built not just teamwork, but a family spirit that still defines this company today.”
“Today, as we celebrate 30 years of growth, resilience, and achievement, I know he would be proud — not only of what this company has become, but of the people who have carried his vision forward.
“His legacy lives on in every foundation we lay, in every colleague who upholds his standards, and in every client who places their trust in us.”
Cope Construction’s portfolio includes the new Nadi Police Station, Nasinu Court House, FNU College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies, Valelevu Police Station, Nakasi Health Centre, Proximity Apartments in Suva and the Fiji Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Services Complex in Jerusalem Rd, Suva.
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Note: This article was first published under the headline: 30 years and counting – Staff pay tribute to company founder in Page 18 of the print version of The Fiji Times dated Friday, October 17, 2025
