AMAZING FIJIANS
‘Two-women team’ making a difference
Renu Singh and Tulia Qovuna may not be familiar names, but their smiles are recognised by people living in the Navua and Pacific Harbour areas.
The two friends own the Facebook page Make a Difference – Fiji. They are a non-profit, non-government organisation.
They have served most of the Navua and Pacific Harbour residents who are in need of assistance and guidance. They also help raise funds for people who need medical treatment or are financially starved for medical treatment abroad.
They have also assisted those who are in need of groceries, clothes, build sanitations, toilets and houses.
Turning point
Ms Singh said: “I started Make A Difference – Fiji in 2009.
“My main motive was to motivate people going through domestic violence and depression.
“I still focus on that, but the growth of Make a difference – Fiji is now also focusing on so many other issues in Fiji.”
She had a friend, who was diagnosed with blood cancer and needed medical treatment overseas that was worth close to $60,000. Ms Singh was able to raise $58,000 in a month.
That was her turning point. She has no regrets doing what she does to this day.
Two-women army
“There’s only my good friend Tulia and myself, so it’s a two-women army,” Ms Singh said.
“It gets very difficult at times for us. We have to juggle family, work and the projects and goals we hope to achieve.”
It is a charitable organisation and 80 per cent is funded from what Ms Singh and Ms Qovuna earn from their real jobs.
Ms Singh has been a victim of depression and domestic violence. She says her past has been her source of inspiration as well.
“We do this because we know how difficult it is to be in unfortunate circumstances,” she said.
Plans are in the pipeline to help build proper sanitation facilities for villages along their corridor.
Ms Singh was born in Tavua, but lived most of her life in Navua.
She said she came from a less fortunate and abusive upbringing. This has motivated her to build a better future for her four-year-old daughter.
“Never give up on life and never stop looking backwards because that is what will help move you forward,” she said.