The Australia Awards alumni community in Fiji came together on 24 October 2025 to celebrate achievements, connection and collaboration. In attendance were Australia Awards graduates from diverse sectors—health, education, governance, infrastructure and more—reflecting the breadth of talent and influence within the alumni community.
The networking event marked a significant milestone for the Fiji program with the launch of new initiatives designed to amplify alumni engagement and impact well into the future.
Launch of the Fiji–Australia Alumni Nexus and Aspire Grants
The highlight of the evening was the launch of the Fiji–Australia Alumni Nexus, an innovative online platform created to bring alumni together across sectors, disciplines and locations.
Designed as a dynamic hub for long term engagement and cross sector exchange, the Nexus offers alumni a space to connect, share knowledge, build partnerships and collaborate on ideas that contribute to progress across Fiji and the region.
Another key moment during the networking event was the introduction of Alumni Aspire Grants. This new grant scheme is aimed at transforming alumni ideas into meaningful, community‑driven projects inspired by Fiji’s development priorities.
The Aspire Grants gives alumni the opportunity to put their Australian‑acquired skills and leadership into action to help address real challenges at home.
DFAT Counsellor for Economic and Development Cooperation, Mr. Andrew Shepherd, emphasized the vital role of alumni in strengthening the Fiji–Australia Vuvale Partnership, through their respective contributions to communities and country:
“Your leadership, innovation, and commitment to your communities are at the heart of our Vuvale relationship. The Nexus and Aspire Grant are investments in your continued impact.”
Honoring Past Alumni Advisory Board Members
Beyond new beginnings, the event also offered a moment of appreciation. Past Alumni Advisory Board members were recognised for their years of leadership, stewardship and commitment to strengthening the alumni network.
Reflecting on this journey, Victoria University alumna and former Board member Barbara Temo shared:
“Over the past four years, we have grown from a small steering committee into a strong advisory board, achieving so much together. Seeing initiatives like The Nexus and the Aspire Grant come to life shows how far our community has come.”
A New Era of Connection
The introduction of the Nexus and the Aspire Grant reflect the program’s commitment to supporting alumni beyond their studies—creating pathways for collaboration, innovation and community impact.
Alumni Advisory Board President Laisani Macedru captured the optimism of the evening:
“We have watched this community grow in confidence, connection and leadership. The Nexus is the next exciting step, a platform that reflects the strength of our alumni and the possibilities we can unlock when we come together.”
Australia Awards and Women Leading and Influencing alumna Neelta Goundar echoed the excitement:
“The Nexus is an exciting platform for alumni to connect and collaborate… and there are exciting opportunities that can come about.”
With new tools, renewed networks and opportunities on the horizon, alumni are well placed to lead with confidence, collaborate across sectors and drive positive change across Fiji and the Pacific.
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