Speaking at the 2026 Marist Old Boys Association Annual Bazaar 2026 Family Day, President of the Association, Neumi Vakadewabuka says the anniversary will be an opportunity to honour the legacy of the Marist Brothers and build on the work they started.
Vakadewabuka says Marist Brothers High School officially began on 1 February 1937, while the Marist Brothers’ history in Fiji dates back to 1844 when they began their work in Lakeba.
He says the Road to 90 theme is “honouring the past, celebrating the present and protecting the future.”
Vakadewabuka says the association wants the celebrations to be meaningful and to encourage current students, while also supporting young people who have recently left school and are facing challenges finding employment.
He says a combined fundraiser for works of mercy is planned for December, followed by a combined Mass at the school on 1 February 2027 to mark the exact date the school began.
He says activities will then continue in June, with Marist Old Boys in Nadi starting the celebrations on 4 June 2027, followed by a combined Mass in Suva on 6 June 2027 to mark the feast day.
He is encouraging Marist Old Boys living overseas, including those in the United States, Australia and New Zealand, to make preparations early and be part of the celebrations.
Vakadewabuka says the Marist Old Boys Bazaar is also about supporting and empowering members, with organisations including the Fiji Development Bank, FNPF, LTA, Elections Office and Ministry of Justice providing services at the event.
He says the association is also working with several firms to provide group discounts of between 10 and 15 percent for Marist Old Boys.
A BSP Life Insurance initiative has also been launched, with around 80 people already starting their premiums.
Vakadewabuka says the association is also focused on some of the challenges facing Fiji, particularly drugs and HIV.
The Ministry of Health is at the bazaar providing voluntary HIV and diabetes testing, and he is encouraging members to take advantage of the services.
He says the association wants Marist Old Boys to show how an alumni family can respond to challenges while continuing the legacy of service started by the Marist Brothers.
Vakadewabuka also acknowledged members who have been involved in works of mercy, including feeding the poor, visiting people in need and helping others access medical facilities and financial assistance.
He is encouraging members to keep their families well, remain connected and continue supporting works of mercy as the Marist community moves towards its 90th anniversary.
