Pacific Panda volunteers acknowledged

58 WWF volunteers were presented with their Certificate of Recognition for their commitment to supporting conservation initiatives by WWF Fiji Coral Reef Rescue Initiative Manager Margaret Vakalalabure.

The presentation of certificates was held on Nukulau island and also involved an Annual General meeting where volunteers nominated their new office bearers.

Outgoing WWF Volunteer President Maryanne Shaw thanked the volunteers highlighting that the WWF volunteer programme is a great place to learn new skills, gain new experiences, meet new people and give back to the environment.

"Don't underestimate yourself and what you can bring to the table, support one another to ensure that each of you are able to achieve your goals,"she said.

Volunteering brings a diverse range of people from all walks of life and encourages young people to think of issues and become strategic and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

Fiji Coral Reef Rescue Initiative Manager Margaret Vakalalabure also thanked the WWF volunteer group for being a critical component to the WWF- Fiji team.

The volunteers range from different age groups and come from diverse backgrounds and fields of study come with a common passion of ensuring Fiji's beauty and natural resources remain as pristine as possible and what can they contribute to ensure that it remains that way.
 
"We are were most fortunate to be part of the AGM as well as their End of Year Reflection Bonding Event on Nukulau Island. It has been truly inspiring to hear how they have managed as young stewards to be part of activities and plan events to support National Celebrations as well as contribute to survey activities for Projects such as Marine Turtle Use, amongst many."

The young team headed by Ms. Maryanne Shaw have been very active in the last 2 years and it speaks volumes of the leadership within and their passion to work together for a greater cause. We acknowledge their hard work and contributions and we thank them for the work that they have greatly contributed to with respect to the continuous preservation of our Environment."

"We welcome the new committee for 2022, we will rally our support behind the Volunteers and their new committee and continue to ensure that these baby pandas are ready to face the challenges and to embrace the waves of the coming years and the many many challenges we will face as we press forward in the space of Conservation."