IN Fiji we live by ‘Veilomani’ — the love shared between people and ‘Veivukei’ the call to help one another without expecting anything in return.
Rosie Travel Group’s Events division creative director and co-owner Brigid Whitton highlighted this at the Red Cross Ball partnership agreement signing held at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort on Monday.
Rosie Events has collaborated with Fiji Red Cross Society, Crowne Plaza, education specialist Temesia Tuicaumia and Encore ANZAPAC for the return of the iconic event after a lapse of eight years.
Ms Whitton said Rosie Events was honoured to weave the spirit into the theming, ensuring that every colour, every story and every shared moment reflected the heart of “Red in Resilience”.
“It is with deep humility and heartfelt gratitude that we accept this honour,” she said.
“Today and the night of November 1, we stand not only as event planners but as storytellers for our Vanua, entrusted with the sacred duty of carrying forward the Red Cross message of keeping humanity alive.
“These values are not just traditions, they are the heartbeat of our community, they are also the living spirit of the Red Cross.
“Across our islands, the colour red is more than a sign of urgency, it’s a symbol of Sautu, Yalo Dina, and Yalo Kaukauwa.
“It is the warmth of a woven mat laid out for strangers, the courage of volunteers braving the wind of a cyclone and the quiet compassion of hands that wipe away tears in the aftermath.”
Ms Whitton said the colour red in resilience is the essence of our vanua — steadfast, united, and always ready to serve.
“In the Fijian way, it means lifting others with grace, leading with humility and standing firm like the vatu (stone) that anchors our shores.
“To the Red Cross workers and volunteers — you embody the soul of our people- steady, selfless, and strong.
“Through your service you keep humanity alive — one heartbeat, one village, and one sacred moment at a time.”
Rosie Events was recently inducted into the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards Hall of Fame after winning the Conference & Incentive Operator of the Year Award for three consecutive years.
The Red Cross Ball will be held on November 1, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated August 21, 2025