Jocani Soronamata, Josivini Marama and Niko Tikoinakida had all made their village proud after they were awarded with the Duke of Edinburgh international award.
Naivicula Tatadra Youth and Sports Club in the Tikina of Naloto, Tailevu first registered with the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2019 with 64 youths under the club.
That number of club members soared when COVID-19 pandemic caused havoc in the country.
These three members stayed on and persevered amid the odds the world was facing, admirably scooping the bronze medal for their club.
Participants had to be involved in community service /environment– setting up recreational sites, becoming fitter, developing new skills among other requirements to be awarded.
Award leader and Tailevu Provincial youth general secretary, Peceli Raiqui commended the trio for their achievement.
He said they had set a new calibre for the youths in their village, a standard he said made history for their village because this was the first time their village youth club had been recognised.
“I have immense pride for these three youths right now, they have made their family, Vanua and me so proud,” Mr Raiqui said.
“When we first started the club we had many participants, now that these three youths have scooped this internationally recognised award, I hope this sets an encouragement bar for the youths back home.”
Mr Raiqui said they had to wake up around 4am yesterday to attend the award ceremony.
He said the award mirrors a new era of breakthrough for youths in the village, and particularly the three youths.
“Given the less advancement we have back in the village in terms of upskilling of youths and awareness like that, I am grateful we had registered with the ministry because they open doors to endless opportunities,” he said.
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