Compassionate, honest, courageous and determined were words used to describe some of the seven recipients of the Fiji Children's Awards at Government House this morning.
Having saved two children from a fire in Korovuto that claimed the life of 1 year old, Swami Vivekananda College Form 5 student Waisea Volavola said that during the time of rescue he was really scared as this was the first time he had been in such a situation.
Volavola said that at first the two children were terrified as he was smashing the window to get out however, when their fear became greater they moved to him where he then pulled them both out.
He added that at the time, he also thought of his mother and all she had taught him.
Six other recipients were recognized.
9 year old St Augustine Public School student, Meri Raramasi was nominated by her classmates for her willingness to be helpful to everyone.
10 year old Siga Mekemeke, of Indra Gandhi Memorial School won an award for returning a wallet lost by a visiting pastor from overseas.
15 year old Selina Boila of LDS was awarded for striving to look after her father who is unemployed.
Boila's mother had left her at a young age.
17 year old Kartik Chand received an award for his volunteerism with the Fiji Red Cross, Tavua Branch.
17 year old Ulamila Dutt of Gospel High School was awarded for her support and care of her bedridden father and mother who recently underwent a breast cancer operation while 17 year old Rinesh Sharma of Sangam Sadhu Kappuswamy College got an award for his services to the community.
Sharma is the youngest Sanatan priest in Fiji and writes religious songs.
The awards were presented by President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Vision Fiji's current patron.
A minute of silence was also observed during the ceremony in honour of former patron, Susan Parkinson.
Story by: William Waqavakatoga
