The Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset (RCSPS) is known for its food hamper distribution during Diwali and Christmas, supporting 100 to 150 families each time. The club also organises 4WD adventure trips into Fiji’s interior, combining adventure with aid to rural schools and villages.
RCSPS was officially founded on May 12, 1999. At that time, Suva already had three Rotary clubs, but there was room for another with a more diverse and varied membership. Joe Singh, a member of the Rotary Club of Suva, envisioned a new club that he could help shape from the ground up, establishing its culture and service goals. His vision was to create a unique club experience that was inclusive and appealing, expanding Rotary’s reach in Fiji.
Initially formed for fellowship and networking, RCSPS quickly evolved to leverage the talents and resources of its members to serve the community. The founding members identified significant needs in health, education, and financial literacy. They aimed to bring together neighbours, experts, and problem-solvers to address these community needs. Additionally, the club’s evening meetings made it accessible to those who couldn’t attend morning or lunchtime meetings.
The establishment of a new Rotary club involves a well-defined process governed by Rotary International. The club’s executive, known as the board, is led by the president and includes key roles such as secretary, treasurer, and various directors for club services, community projects, the Rotary Foundation, and vocational service. Mr Singh was the driving force behind RCSPS, supported by significant charter members including Winston Thompson, Sashi Singh, Jesoni Vitusigavulu, Isoa Koloumaira, Vijay Raghwan, Navin Chandra, and Sangeeta Niranjan.
RCSPS aligned its goals with those of Rotary International, focusing on providing service to others, promoting integrity, and advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace. The club operates under guiding principles such as the Four-way Test (Truth, Fairness, Goodwill, and Friendship) and the motto “Service Above Self,” channelled through five avenues of service: club, vocational, community, international, and new generations.
The founding members utilised their personal networks to recruit members, inviting friends, colleagues, and business contacts to informational meetings. Interested individuals were then invited to further discussions where the club’s meeting format and goals were refined. The club decided to meet every Wednesday evening, a tradition that continues today.
Chartering a new Rotary club involves contacting Rotary leaders in the region, starting with the district governor, who guides the process. A new club must have at least 20 members. Sponsorship by an existing club, while not required, is beneficial for mentoring and support.
One of the primary challenges faced by RCSPS was maintaining a healthy and active membership. Attracting and retaining members is crucial, especially as people become busier. The club had to think creatively about engaging new members and ensuring sustained participation despite competing commitments.
Since its inception, RCSPS has focused on the six areas of Rotary International, recently adding a seventh to address climate change and environmental protection. The club undertakes projects targeting peace building, disease prevention, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, community economic development, and environmental protection.
Over the past 25 years, RCSPS has executed numerous community projects. These include providing solar power to remote villages, disaster relief efforts, monthly vegetable drives, beach clean-up, installing trash bins, refurbishing health centres and hospitals, donating books to schools, and offering scholarships. These projects have significantly improved the lives of many in the community.
Membership has fluctuated over the years but has included more female members since the 1989 constitutional change allowing women to join Rotary. This diversity has enriched the club’s culture and outreach.
RCSPS maintains strong connections with Rotary International and other clubs globally. Members can attend any Rotary meeting worldwide, fostering a global network of 1.4 million members and 46,000 clubs.
The club’s enduring values include the spirit of selfless giving and fellowship. “Service Above Self” and prioritising fellowship have guided RCSPS, ensuring it remains a welcoming place where service and family go hand in hand.
Looking ahead, RCSPS aims to retain and grow its membership, embracing more diverse backgrounds. The club aspires to undertake larger, impactful projects that leave a lasting positive impact on Fiji’s communities.
The first Rotary club was formed in Chicago in 1905 by Paul P Harris, with meetings rotating among members’ offices, hence the name “Rotary.” Rotary’s mission expanded globally, focusing on service above self and ethical standards, encapsulated in the four-way test. Today, Rotary is a global network dedicated to humanitarian efforts and fostering peace and goodwill.
Jason Chandra, president of the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset, expressed his heartfelt thanks to all club members for their dedication and hard work over the past year.
“As president of the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of our members for your unwavering support, dedication, and commitment to our club and its mission,” he said.
Mr Chandra highlighted the enthusiasm and dedication of the members, noting their significant contributions to various projects and initiatives that have positively impacted the community.
“Throughout this Rotary year, I have been continually inspired by the passion for service and the willingness of our members to go above and beyond to make a difference in our community and beyond. Whether it was through our active participation in Rotary projects, initiatives, or the day-to-day running of the club, our members’ contributions have been invaluable and have truly made a difference in the lives of those we serve.”
He expressed his pride in the club’s achievements during his tenure, emphasising the success of community service projects and Rotary initiatives. He acknowledged that these accomplishments were a result of the members’ hard work and dedication.
“I am humbled by all that we have accomplished together during my tenure as president, from impactful community service projects to meaningful Rotary initiatives, we have worked tirelessly to uphold the pillars of Rotary and make a positive impact in our community.”
Mr Chandra also wishes to thank past presidents of the club, recognising their crucial role in the club’s growth and success.
“Their vision, leadership, and tireless efforts have laid the foundation for our success, and we are grateful for their continued guidance and support.”
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in the club’s future, believing that with the ongoing support and dedication of its members, the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset will continue to thrive and make a significant impact.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as the president of RCSPS, and I look forward to continuing our journey together as we work to make the world a better place.”
