More than 10 young people joined hands over the weekend to clean up the Lovu Seaside coastline in Lautoka.
The clean-up, known as “plogging”, a combination of jogging and picking up litter, was central to the event’s mission of promoting environmental care while encouraging youth involvement in peace-building efforts.
The activity was part of a peace and wellness initiative organised by international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
Held under the theme Creating Peace and Eliminating Dengue Breeding Grounds, the event was hosted in collaboration with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the One Nation Our People Youth Club Fiji.
The organisers said the initiative focused on tackling local health concerns by addressing issues like littering, stagnant water and the spread of dengue fever.
“The plogging activity was not just about picking up trash — it is about creating a sense of shared responsibility,” HWPL Fiji said.
“It’s about showing how our physical environment connects to community wellbeing and peace.”
In addition to the clean-up, the program featured the ‘Healthy Bounce Challenge’, a light fitness session aimed at raising awareness of NCDs such as diabetes and hypertension.
“A one-on-one reflection segment encouraged dialogue among participants about their roles in peacebuilding and the changes they want to see in their communities.”
According to HWPL, the organisers emphasised that the initiative sought to link wellness, environmental stewardship and youth-led peace efforts in practical, meaningful ways.
They hope to expand similar programs across other communities in Fiji in the coming months.
