In a heartwarming display of international solidarity, Lifeline Community Service, a former charitable organisation previously based in war-torn Belfast, Northern Ireland, went above and beyond to support the educational needs of students at Lelean Memorial School in Nausori in the 1980s.

On Friday, August 24, 1984, The Fiji Times published an article capturing the selfless contribution of this charitable organisation.

For more than 20 years, Lifeline used to raise funds through various initiatives, including a remarkable effort where they baked and sold an impressive 1600 cakes.

Rob Pattison, a dedicated science teacher at Lelean Memorial, expressed gratitude for Lifeline’s ongoing support, emphasising the profound impact their contributions had made.

“The help they’ve extended to their community resonates deeply with us here in Fiji,” Mr Pattison said.

Established at Portadown College in Belfast, Lifeline primarily served victims affected by the conflict in their region.

According to the article, despite the challenges they faced locally, Lifeline extended their compassion across oceans, demonstrating a commitment to global citizenship and education.

Fiji’s High Commissioner to Great Britain at that time Ratu Josua Toganivalu visited Portadown College to personally convey Lelean’s appreciation for Lifeline’s efforts.

During his visit he presented a traditional piece of masi cloth as a token of gratitude from the students of Lelean.

In return, he received a school plaque, symbolising the bond of friendship and solidarity between the two educational institutions.

“The visit was marked by a touching moment when Ratu Josua was surprised with a traditional Fijian song,” Mr Pattison said.

The heartfelt gesture was orchestrated by Jennifer Douglas, a teacher at Portadown College, who had previously arranged for students to learn and perform the song as a tribute to their Fijian counterparts.

Lifeline’s support became instrumental in enhancing educational resources at the Davuilevu school, providing funds for magazine subscriptions, calculators and books on computers.

Inspired by an article penned by Mr Pattison in an international teachers’ magazine, Lifeline’s students initiated fundraising efforts aimed at addressing specific needs identified at Lelean, particularly in science education.

“The initial donation stemmed from their collective effort in baking and selling cakes,” Mr Pattison explained. They’ve since organised multiple fundraising activities, including a forthcoming walk-a-thon, to continue supporting our school.”