Many people doubted the Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development (FRIEND) would succeed when it first began, but founder and Minister for Women Sashi Kiran says she never stopped believing in its mission.
Speaking on fijivillage Her-Story with Temalesi Vono, Kiran recalled being told repeatedly that the organisation's business model would not work.
Despite the scepticism, she says she remained determined to prove otherwise.
Kiran says she believed that if something was worth doing and driven by the right reasons, persistence would eventually overcome the obstacles.
Founded by Kiran in December 2001, the organisation was established to address poverty in rural communities and create sustainable opportunities for vulnerable Fijians.
Reflecting on FRIEND's achievements, Kiran says many of its milestones came from curiosity rather than a desire for recognition, including establishing the organisation at the age of 28 and later being appointed chair of the Pacific Organic Ethical Trade Community.
She describes that appointment as one of the most emotional moments of her career, saying it was an honour to be recognised by leaders across the Pacific.
As FRIEND marks its 25th anniversary this year, the organisation enters a new chapter following Kiran's resignation, with Acting Chief Executive Officer Viloki Gohil now leading its operations.
Today, FRIEND Fiji works across Fiji's Western, Northern and Central divisions, supporting rural and underserved communities through programmes focused on sustainable livelihoods, community development and health, while assisting vulnerable groups including people with disabilities, widows, single parents, orphans and former prisoners.
