26 October 2024, Suva Fiji. In a focused meeting at Suva’s Grand Pacific Hotel, Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, engaged with spiritual leader Gurudev Shri Shri Ravi Shankar to explore shared aspirations for Fiji’s future in tourism, sustainability, and community resilience. Permanent Secretary Ms. Salaseini Daunabuna also attended, underscoring the significance of this strategic dialogue.

Their conversation highlighted the value of data-driven insights, with Hon. Gavoka emphasizing how statistics help shape impactful strategies for growth. Gurudev echoed this, adding that data, when applied effectively, serves as a compass for informed, meaningful decisions.

Cultural unity was another focal point, with both leaders reflecting on the importance of community-centered events and shared values. Gurudev cited examples from Australia’s festival landscape, where diverse cultural expressions foster community cohesion—a concept aligned with Fiji’s own tourism and cultural development goals.

In terms of youth empowerment, Gurudev introduced his foundation’s initiatives in India, particularly in southern regions, where youth programs focus on skills, resilience, and community leadership. Hon. Gavoka acknowledged the impact of these initiatives would be of great benefit to Fiji as it aligns with Fiji’s objectives to empower its youth through training and skill-building opportunities.

The leaders also discussed sustainable farming practices, with Gurudev sharing a sample of what can be done on a single acre of land, showcasing how small-scale herbal farming can serve as both a health resource and a model for sustainable agriculture.

The meeting concluded with Hon. Gavoka reaffirming Fiji’s dedication to fostering a sustainable, culturally vibrant future rooted in environmental stewardship and community resilience—a vision closely shared with Gurudev Shri Shri Ravi Shankar.

-ENDS-