Rainbow Pride Foundation 4 LGBTQ Rights and Equality in Fiji

The Centre for Environment & Sustainable Development (PaCE-SD) is welcoming applications for Masters Scholarship in Climate Change.

There are two scholarships to be offered to successful applicants for full-time studies at USP.

Check the poster for more details about the scholarship and on how to apply.

hashtag
Courtesy: USP

🍀🪐🪧 Adaptability will always beat planning.
A lesson I wish I learned earlier in life:

It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one most adaptable to change. - Charles Darwin

Adaptability is the single most important trait for success in life.

The explorer doesn't set out on his voyage trusting that the seas will remain calm and that he will stay perfectly on course; but rather, in his ability to adapt when the inevitable storms and chaos arrive.
You are the explorer and life is your voyage. You don't need to trust in your plan or your intelligence.

You need to trust in your ability to adapt.


Courtesy: Mindset. See less

Have you been trained on the Stigma Index and have experience in the planning and implementation of the Stigma Index 2.0? We’re looking for you! GNP+ is accepting applications from “COMMUNITY EXPERTS TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ON STIGMA INDEX 2.0.”.

To apply follow link for more details: https://bit.ly/40zqVIX

Deadline: Tuesday, 12 November 2024

🔊CALL FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
🌏 For Marshall Islands (RMI), Palau, and Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Nationals

The Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership Programme (PEUMP) at USP’s Institute of Marine Resources (IMR) in collaboration with USP Pacific TAFE is inviting applications from marine and fisheries management personnel based in RMI, Palau, and FSM for a Certificate IV in Resilience program.

📚 Programme Highlights:
This online qualification prepares learners to:
• Gather data for resilience projects and reporting.
• Support communities and agencies with resilience info and resources.
• Develop awareness on climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.
• Coordinate and monitor resilience-building projects

🌍 Apply Now: https://www.usp.ac.fj/.../Undergraduate_Application_for...

📆 Application Deadline: 29 November 2024
Take a step toward building a more resilient future - apply now! 🌊


European Union in the Pacific Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok The University of the South Pacific

Youth Hub Seed Grant applications are now open!

The IAS Youth Hub is pleased to invite young people to submit a proposal requesting up to 10,000 USD to implement a six-month innovation project (from April to October 2025) that addresses a need for young people living with and affected by HIV.

✅ Apply by 29 November at https://lnkd.in/dNPFCPMp!

📝 For tips to help you with your Youth Hub Seed Grant application, join our webinar, "Granting success: How to craft compelling funding applications", taking place on 12 November at 14:00 CET. Register today at https://bit.ly/IASGranting!
hashtag hashtag

LinkedIn This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

🚀 Ready to turn your passion into a business? Join Bridger Impact Pacific for a FREE Entrepreneurship Start-Up Workshop at American Corner Suva. Learn the essentials to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.

📅 Thursday, November 7
🕒 3:30pm
📍Suva City Carnegie Library
➡️ Sign up now: https://ow.ly/fZK950TWPgK

Fiji Council of Social Services program manager Josaia Tokoni has given an assurance that strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to identify those who abuse natural disaster assistance packages.
“There was a term called yesterday when the community gets smarter than the system, and that’s expected,” he said.
“That’s why we have the community feedback mechanism tool, or the CFM tool.
“It helps us to remain accountable not only to the people we serve, but how we can also hold those accountable, the gatekeepers, the local coordinators, like the district advisory councils, and how we can keep them accountable as well with a greater voice.”
Mr Tokoni urged members of the public who witness abuse of assistance packages in their communities to also use the CFM tool to report anonymously .
“There are certain lines of reporting that we follow, especially through the Government, and also we recognise that we are not regulators in this as a civil society actor.
“We are mere partners, but we have the NGOs, and we have the local government regulators, where we have the commissioners, we deal with them in times of natural disasters.”
Meanwhile, Mr Tokoni said there were pre-packed packages with government regulated items in each kit.
“It’s not a one size fits all kind of package but there are mechanisms within, not only government systems, but civil society organisations that ensure there are prepositioned items.
“These are mostly non-food items that are ready to be deployed, and there is already some understanding about how they can mobilise food rations and other assistance faster.”

https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/strict-monitoring-mechanisms/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGWJrZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHTT2eVTv_Aqh__HbBZCQivZK2cNlmlPlIjC7Pc-kBueZ4MI5VNCbtEmHLQ_aem_XWYCjzUkLosoo8JTzocEtA

Strict monitoring mechanisms Fiji Council of Social Services program manager Josaia Tokoni has given an assurance that strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to identify those who abuse natural […]

US Election has commenced.

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/US-Election-Harris-holds-slight-8-lead-over-Trump-with-less-than-48-hours-to-go-r45fx8/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGWJbBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHdVJdPAz8pskXgAkjT4flN9uZPAGAZ11OkuQ3b9_P717qBmUsal2lcxuSA_aem_YfauSrUAs5AuI56vTMPm1g

US Election: Harris holds slight 8% lead over Trump with less than 48 hours to go With less than 48 hours to go in the US election and more than 77.6m votes already cast, new polling shows Kamala Harris leading among early voters in

Diwali 2024 Wishes |Diwali, also popularly known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most beloved festivals in Fiji. It is celebrated with immense enthusiasm among many communities, even around the world. This festival represents the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.
✨❤️
To make this occasion even more special, share heartwarming wishes, messages, images, and SMS, to loved ones.

The PSGDN conducted a workshop in relation to HIV advocacy and awareness to its members and partners in collobaration with consultants.

Every year, Outright International hosts activists of diverse s*xual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and s*x characteristics from around the world for a week of high-level meetings and activities at the United Nations in New York.
We encourage activists to apply for a chance to join us as one of our delegates for the 2025 Advocacy Week, which will take place from May 11 to May 16, 2025.

The aims of Advocacy Week are:

1.To facilitate the use of the New York-based UN system such that activists of diverse s*xual orientations, gender identities and expressions and s*x characteristics enhance their networks and identify new entry points for progressing LGBTIQ movement building at home.
2.To elicit clear commitments from UN agencies and member states to take steps to address specific human rights issues impacting people of diverse SOGIESC around the world.
3.To bring together activists of diverse SOGIESC from around the globe and create safe spaces for networking and exchanging information and experiences; and
4.To build the capacity and knowledge of New York-based UN and member state representatives about the situations and human rights of LGBTIQ people

Advocacy Week 2025 will kick off with three online training sessions in February, March and April. There will also be a full day of an in-person brainstorming session on May 11. During the training, we will go through basic knowledge and ways of engagement with member states, UN agencies and other stakeholders to better define how we will be using the week for effective advocacy. From May 12 - 16, delegates will attend strategic meetings with diplomatic missions, UN agencies, and other advocacy targets, as well as events at the United Nations and Outright International’s office.
https://outrightinternational.org/advocacy-week-application-2025

Advocacy Week Application 2025 Every year, Outright International hosts activists of diverse s*xual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and s*x

Students from the School for International Training (STI) Education from the USA visited the PSGDN & RPF Office today to learn more about Fiji's LGBTQI+, NGO, and community.

The visit was an eye-opener for the students and officials. We are happy to have this next generation of leaders learning more about the culture and background of the vulnerable community in Fiji especially the SOGIESC community.

Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN U.S. Embassy Suva

The Rainbow Pride Foundation continued working with the Ministry of Health & Medical Services and UNFPA on the National Condom Campaign Initiatives (NCCI). The main task of the Sub Committee 2 Technical Working Group is to develop BCC Materials for the campaign. This would include platforms such as social media, websites, cinema advertisements, and traditional media.

Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN Ministry of Health & Medical Services - Fiji UNFPA Pacific

Essential Guide to LBQ Research Priorities | Are you unsure of how to center LBQ issues in your global advocacy?

Consult the new publication on LBQ advocacy and research priorities drafted by 8 global and regional organizations in consultation with more than 150 LBQ activists from around the world. Read the publication in…

https://outrightinternational.org/our-work/human-rights-research/summary-consultations-lbq-advocacy-and-research-priorities

Outright International Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN

Summary of Consultations on LBQ Advocacy and Research Priorities Resource Summary of Consultations on LBQ Advocacy and Research Priorities Region(s) Global TOPIC(s) LBQ Author(s) Outright Team ILGA World Global Le***an* Coalition Publish Date October 9, 2024 Share Read the Full Publication On 13 March 2024, over 60 le***an, bis*xual, and q***r (LBQ) activists fro...

Today we had visitation from the MFAT, New Zealand Officials at the PSGDN and RPF Office. It's great to be joined by Leanne Toledo, and Shaymaa Arif from Wellington, NZ.


Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN

THROWBACK WEDNESDAY | AHP Disaster READY is supporting local partners in Fiji to increase their capacity for disaster preparedness and response, enhancing inclusion and saving lives. Video produced by Plan International Fiji and Australian Volunteers International (AVI).

Fiji's cyclone season is from October to April 2025.

'Prevention is better than cure' - AHP Disaster READY in Fiji This short video highlights how AHP Disaster READY is supporting local partners in Fiji and Solomon Islands to increase their capacity for disaster preparedn...

Fiji is on alert for Mpox after an outbreak was declared following an increase in cases on the African continent this year.


https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/news/health/fiji-on-alert-for-mpox/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF8Fi1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHbGih5skK4Tp2NAxxKqhiMWTy_fsWZjq5rLVgwIcVx_It3Q4j4wH0N5pPg_aem_DKvts2Rgsa3COzmKE00NXA

Fiji on alert for Mpox Fiji is on alert for Mpox after an outbreak was declared following an increase in cases on the African continent this year.

Drivers and people living in the coastal areas from Natadola to Vatukarasa along the Coral Coast on Queens Highway, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Moala and Southern Lau are to take precautionary measures as a coastal inundation alert is now in force for these areas. The Nadi Weather Office says people should expect sea flooding of coastal areas especially during high tides.

People living in Viti Levu, and maritime areas like Yasawa, Mamanuca groups, Kadavu, and nearby smaller islands like Moala and Southern Lau Group should also be vigilant as a heavy rain alert has been issued for these areas.

Localized heavy rain may lead to flash flooding of low lying areas. A low pressure system is expected to develop to the South of Fiji tomorrow and is expected to generate and direct moderate southerly swells over the group.

Expect localised flooding of susceptible communities, business and low lying areas, localised flooding of minor roads, Irish crossings and bridges with some disruption to traffic flow. There will be poor visibility at land and sea with increased risk of motor vehicle accidents due to slippery roads.

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/Coastal-inundation-alert-for-the-Coral-Coast-and-maritime-areas-5x4fr8/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF71NJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHdLSRudrhkk1Iu1QmubAOv6E9WUYSXy7icCjnpXQDLe4rslIqNCnVOjVqg_aem_bJyncama2YWICUivw0GxDA

Coastal inundation alert for the Coral Coast and maritime areas Drivers and people living in the coastal areas from Natadola to Vatukarasa along the Coral Coast on Queens Highway, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands,

National Condom Campaign Initiative | The Fiji Ministry of Health & Medical Services, in collaboration with its partners like the Rainbow Pride Foundation will launch the National Condom Campaign Initiative(NCCI) to address the pressing need for promoting safe s*x practices across different demographics in our community. With rising rates of HIV, other s*xually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended preganancies, it is imperative to implement a comprehensive public health campaign that effectively educates and engages the population.



Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN

National Coming Out Day 2024 | It is an annual observance dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals in the LGBTQ+ community as they share their authentic selves with the world. This day aims to raise awareness about the importance of coming out, challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and promote acceptance and inclusion. As National Coming Out Day approaches, let’s explore the significance of this day, when it takes place, how to get involved, its history, and ways to connect with others through hashtags.

Since its inception, National Coming Out Day has become an internationally recognized event, fostering a culture of acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Relevant Hashtags
When sharing your support for National Coming Out Day 2024 and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, consider using these relevant hashtags to connect with others who are participating in this important celebration:




+




By using these hashtags, you can join a global conversation that promotes acceptance, celebrates diversity, and supports the LGBTQ+ community in their journey towards self-acceptance and equality.

For more information's, visit: https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/national-coming-out-day-2024/

The PSGDN and Rainbow Pride Foundation Wishes Everyone A Happy Fiji Day Celebration.

Celebrating Fiji Day: Understanding the History and Festivities Fiji Day is a time of jubilation and pride for the island nation of Fiji, marking the country’s independence from British colonial rule. This annual celebration on October 10th is a day filled with rich history, vibrant traditions, and a deep sense of cultural identity. The festivities offer a window into the Fijian way of life, with traditional ceremonies, performances, and community gatherings. Understanding the significance of Fiji Day and the various ways it is celebrated helps to appreciate the culture and heritage of this Pacific Island nation.

Key Takeaways

Fiji Day commemorates Fiji’s independence from British colonial rule and is celebrated with great national pride.

Traditional ceremonies like the Kava Ceremony are central to Fiji Day, symbolizing unity and community spirit.

Cultural performances, such as Meke dances, play a significant role in storytelling and preserving Fijian heritage.

Fiji Day is an opportunity to educate and involve guests in Fijian customs, ensuring a respectful celebration of the culture.

The Fijian diaspora and global celebrations of Fiji Day play a crucial role in promoting Fijian heritage worldwide.

The celebration of Fiji Day involves various traditional and modern activities that showcase the vibrant culture and heritage of the islands. From the solemn flag-raising ceremonies to the exuberant parades and cultural performances, Fiji Day is an embodiment of the Fijian spirit.

Significant Milestones in Fijian History
Fiji’s journey to becoming the proud nation it is today is marked by several significant milestones. The cession of Fiji to the British in 1874 was a pivotal moment, beginning nearly a century of colonial rule. It wasn’t until 1970 that Fiji regained its independence, a day now commemorated as Fiji Day. This transition from a British colony to a sovereign state has had a profound impact on the nation’s identity and governance.

Following independence, Fiji has experienced both challenges and triumphs. The establishment of a republican government in 1987 marked another major shift in the political landscape. Despite periods of political instability, Fiji has continued to develop its economy, promote cultural diversity, and enhance its international standing.

To truly appreciate the depth of Fiji’s history, one might Explore Fiji’s Museums and Cultural Centers for a rich tapestry of history, culture, and art. Understanding cultural diversity and the significance of the Kava ceremony can provide a more enriching experience of the nation’s past and present.

Reflections on Independence
Fiji Day marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, a time to reflect on the journey from colonial rule to sovereign statehood. The celebration of independence is not just about the past, but also about the aspirations for Fiji’s future. It’s a day to honor the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the nation.

-The end of colonial rule
-The establishment of a parliamentary democracy
-The ongoing journey towards social and economic development.
-End.
Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN

Fiji’s Comprehensive Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Methodology (CRVAM) is currently undergoing finalisation. The CRVAM is a supplementary document to the Standard Operating Procedures for Planned Relocation in Fiji (SOP). The SOP for Planned Relocation in Fiji is one of the most comprehensive national documents in the world, providing detailed instructions and guidance on processes for climate induced planned relocation. A core element of these processes is the assessment to determine the climate vulnerability and risks faced by the community and identifying appropriate responses and measures to address these risks, including the option to relocate.

The CRVAM lays out guidance on how to –

a. Identify and assess current and future climate hazards and disasters;
b. Assess the exposure of all types of assets, including human, to these different hazards;
c. Ascertain vulnerability of affected communities to the hazards and impacts
d. Determine the risks faced by the community – in the current and planned future environment
e. Analyse and assess for appropriate responses and actions, including for the option to put in place adaptation measures or to relocate.

The CRVAM is intended to support implementers of planned relocation to carry out these assessments and to come up with robust data and information that will support a well-informed decision-making process on the question on whether a community should relocate or not relocate.

These decisions are based on the following processes –
1. Socially appropriate and participatory
2. Science and evidence-based
3. Culturally sensitive
4. Gender responsive and inclusive 5. Holistic and integrated

The CRVAM includes the assessment of threats on cultural and social assets, including non-economic loss and damage. These losses include our cultural identities, our traditional knowledge and social structures, and our psychosocial wellbeing. It is imperative that these social and cultural losses are captured, measured and assessed.

The Fiji CRVAM will be one of the few in the world to integrate and mainstream the assessment of social and cultural losses into national risk assessment processes.

The Climate Change Division of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change organised a two(2) days consultation workshop for the finalisation of the CRVAM. The CRVAM has been developed through extensive stakeholder engagement and inputs and is now in the process of undergoing final stakeholder review before finalisation and submission for endorsement by the Fiji Taskforce on Relocation and Displacement (FTRD).

The workshop was opened by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael.

Objectives
The workshop intends to bring together the technical working group members of the Fiji Taskforce on Relocation and Displacement (FTRD), key partners, and stakeholders to review the final draft of the CRVAM. The objectives of the workshop are to –

1. Provide understanding on the CRVAM
2. Review the overall steps and processes detailed in the CRVAM including the format
3. Review in detail the components on the measurement of social and cultural losses
4. Provide recommendations for the improvement and finalisation of the draft CRVAM

Rainbow Pride Foundation was attended by the Communication, and MEL Officer. This CRVAM tool also captures the recommendation from the LGBTQI+ community via the RPF.

Fiji will soon implement a comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessment methodology that will serve as a guideline for planning the relocation of vulnerable communities.

Permanent Secretary for Environment Dr. Sivendra Michael says the guideline will be used to relocate 17 communities that are at risk from the impact of climate change.

Dr. Michael made the comments at the Fiji Taskforce on Planned Relocation and Displacement Workshop this morning.

https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/news/framework-to-guide-relocation-of-vulnerable-communities/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFwiDdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHa9rp6Z-d6O6qdnaTBde4s_rx-Ftbt8tL2-xoq1YcB_VRqM6FfHufy_wjg_aem_i-0S_XSCP_dMIls3A34tIw

Courtesy: FBC News

Framework to guide relocation of vulnerable communities Fiji will soon implement a comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessment methodology that will serve as a guideline for planning the relocation of vulnerable communities.

Vinaka TAGANE!

Hon. Ketan Lal, spotlighted the SOGIESC Handbook for Fiji Parliamentarians at the Parliament of the Republic of Fiji Session this afternoon where he urged the Minister of Justice to do more to ensure access to justice for ALL Fijians especially those from vulnerable and marginalised Fijians which case studies were highlighted in the booklet!

Thank you Hon Ketan Lal for your support.

Parliament of the Republic of Fiji Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network - PSGDN UK in Fiji Kaleidoscope Oxfam in the Pacific Fiji Council Of Social Services (FCOSS)