THE Athletes and Communities Engagement (ACE) Educators Course was held last week from the 15th to the 19th at the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) Office in Suva, bringing together 15 participants who are passionate about using sport to make a positive difference in schools and communities across Fiji.
Facilitated by trainers Fesaitu Mario, Makelesi Bulikiobo, and Josaia Tuinamata Koro, the course focused on strengthening and upskilling ACE Champions so they can continue delivering meaningful and engaging outreach programmes in their communities.
As the first ACE training held after five years, the programme was an important opportunity for new, active and returning ACE Champions to renew their knowledge, complete re-licensing requirements, and build greater confidence in their roles as educators and community leaders.
Throughout the week, participants took part in interactive sessions covering two key areas: Sport in Communities Administrators and Community Coach & Officials training. These sessions focused on athlete-centred coaching, leadership, safeguarding, communication, and the Olympic values, while also creating space for open discussion, shared experiences, and practical learning on how to build positive, safe, and inclusive sporting environments.
Trainer Fesaitu Mario said the energy and commitment shown by the participants stood out throughout the programme.
“The participants came with a willingness to learn and contribute. There was a lot of good discussion, sharing of ideas, and positive energy throughout the week. It was encouraging to see everyone actively involved and thinking about how they can use what they’ve learned to make a difference in their sports and communities,” he said.
For participant Loiussa Simmons, the training was both valuable and rewarding.
“I really enjoyed the training because it opened my eyes to different ways of supporting athletes and working with people in sport. The sessions were interactive, and I learned a lot from both the trainers and the other participants. After completing the course, I hope to take part in more practical workshops, help facilitate future ACE Educator courses, and present during outreach programs. I’m looking forward to applying these lessons and sharing them with others,” she said.
At the close of the training, participants were assessed on the delivery of their presentations, demonstrating their understanding and application of the content as ACE Champions. The learner guides, provided earlier in the week, served as a key resource to support their preparation and performance throughout the programme.
The course provided participants with useful tools, fresh ideas, and practical approaches they can take back to their schools, sports, and communities as they help extend the reach and impact of the ACE Programme across Fiji.
Following the course, the ACE Educators will also be able to put their learning into practice during Olympic Day, organised by FASANOC, which will be held at Albert Park this Saturday.
FASANOC acknowledged the trainers and participants for their dedication, enthusiasm, and active participation throughout the week. As the ACE Programme continues to grow, FASANOC remains committed to empowering educators and community leaders to inspire young people through sport and the Olympic values.
ACE Educators Participants and Master Educator: (middle) Fesaitu Mario, Makelesi Bulikiobo and Josaia Tuinamata. Picture: SUPPLIED
Sports in Communities Administrators with the Master Educators. Picture: SUPPLIED
