SUNDAY FEATURE - Protecting humanity

The global Red Cross movement is more than just an organisation of 17 million people, most of whom are volunteers. It is an ideal founded on a belief in global human solidarity, actively engaged in the fight against suffering.

That was precisely how Henrick Beer, the late Secretary-General of the League of Red Cross Societies, described the movement that we today have come to respect and cherish.

‘Keeping Humanity Alive’ is the theme of this year’s World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day celebrations—and keep us alive they have, for over 160 years since its founding, and for more than 70 years here in our island republic.

Many of us will remember strolling down the street and seeing the society’s devoted volunteers shaking their collection cans in rhythm, handing out Swiss cross stickers that we proudly wore after each donation.

The Red Cross Society in Fiji has not only been involved in disaster relief and rehabilitation. Its contribution to the nation spans a wide range of areas.

Since independence, the society has been a vital partner in building Fiji’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring the nation has the necessary and adequate medical facilities, as well as trained personnel.

Given Fiji’s complex geographical landscape, which exposes us to a range of natural disasters, the society’s swift and effective response often makes it the first line of help and assistance for affected communities.

In addition, it has also played a key role in Fiji’s education sector by promoting health education, community development and disaster awareness.

Reflecting on the Fiji Red Cross’s journey over the past 50 years, Director-General Ragigia Dawai expressed her joy while going through a collection of photographs, which she stated “captured the essence” of the society’s journey and offered glimpses of the past that continue to shape their work today.

“While I may not know all the faces in the photo, there’s a sense of connection to the enthusiasm and dedication that have been a hallmark of our organisation’s volunteers and supporters,” she said.

She shared that, moving on from the 1990s, a particular photograph of a fashion show organised by the society was a vivid illustration of the broad appeal and influence of the Fiji Red Cross.

“Yet, it’s a specific photograph that has truly captivated my attention. In this image, two ladies and a gentleman proudly carry bags branded with the words ‘Family Planning Kit.’ A stark reminder of how the landscape of healthcare and health awareness has evolved in Fiji over the last half-century.”

The Fiji Red Cross has clearly made an incredible impact on our nation due to the loyalty and strength of the thousands of volunteers—past and present. They were, and continue to be, without doubt, the quiet engine of change.

Joseph Gibson, volunteer coordinator at the organisation, shared that progress often began with a single decision—someone choosing to show up—not for pay or prestige, but out of a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of others.

“In a country like Fiji, where collective values and community ties run deep, volunteerism is not an abstract ideal—it’s lived every day,” he said.

“The impact of volunteerism is not limited to emergencies. It weaves through daily life—fueling literacy programs, sports for development, climate action projects, and food security initiatives. It fosters a culture of participation, where people feel they are not just recipients of aid or policy, but active contributors to their community’s wellbeing.”

Volunteer and Fiji Red Cross board member, Risita Devi, reflecting on her journey, stated that she first began volunteering in 2007, in Fiji’s gold town of Tavua.

She found her collaboration with the Sai Prema Foundation particularly fulfilling, as it allowed her to directly contribute to projects that brought love, compassion, and meaningful change to those in need.

“Likewise, my time as a volunteer with the Red Cross Tavua branch taught me resilience, teamwork, and the importance of community spirit in times of crisis.”

Risita shared that a key milestone for her was being appointed to serve as a national board member of the society after previously serving as the president of the Fiji Red Cross’ Tavua branch.

“To my fellow volunteers: you are the true heroes—whether you are just beginning your journey or have been serving for years. Your work does not go unnoticed; its impact is profound and far-reaching,” she said.