BSP also sponsored prizes for a youth poster and poem competition organised by Lifeline Fiji volunteers under the themes “Changing the Narrative” and “Lived Experiences.”
Leading the BSP delegation, General Manager People and Culture Miliana Susau Tavakaturaga thanked Lifeline Fiji Team Leader Jeremaia Qalobulailakeba Merekula, staff and volunteers for their continued work, particularly in maintaining a 24/7 support service.
Tavakaturaga says the contribution reflects BSP’s value of caring for people in Fiji who may be silently struggling due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
She says there is a need to move away from a culture of silence and encourage people to know that it is okay to talk, ask for help and have someone willing to listen.
She says BSP is also focused on supporting the wellbeing of its own employees by creating a workplace where staff feel valued, understood and supported.
Merekula thanked BSP for its continued support since the partnership began in 2016.
He says when BSP first supported Lifeline Fiji, the organisation was facing serious challenges and was close to shutting down.
Merekula says the need for Lifeline Fiji’s services remains high, especially between September and December when the organisation receives a significant increase in calls.
He says changing the narrative means creating a society where people feel comfortable speaking up and where someone is ready to listen.
During the event, participants lit candles and observed a minute of silence to remember Fijians who have lost their lives to suicide.
Merekula says over the past five years since 2020, 489 Fijians have died by suicide, with 76 percent being males.
He says 13 young Fijians aged between 18 and 24 years have died by suicide this year.
Merekula adds that for every suicide, there are an estimated 20 others who attempt to take their own lives, highlighting the important role Lifeline Fiji plays in providing support to those who are struggling.
Lifeline Fiji operates a 24/7 service and continues to strengthen its capacity through support from Lifeline Australia, including training and exchange programmes.
The organisation will continue its World Suicide Prevention Day activities throughout the month with initiatives such as the Community Kitchen and “Choosing Tomorrow”, which encourages people experiencing distress to find hope and reasons to continue living.
