VILLAGE headmen and district representatives in Macuata have been urged to know their roles and responsibilities for the purpose of improving living standards.
The statement was sounded by the Strategic Framework for Change and Co-ordinating office at a meeting in Labasa yesterday.
Office media liaison officer Kisoko Cagituevei told a group of men and women that development could only progress in their communities if they were good role models.
"We should be the driving factors of change in our own communities because villagers look up to us and follow in our footsteps," Mr Cagituevei said.
"Our appearance, behaviour and lifestyle should change for the better because this will only foster wellness and wellbeing.
"It is also imperative we organise village meetings more often because this will help us identify areas that need improvement."
Mr Cagituevei said the government would only support those people who were hard at work and had the right motives to achieve good in life.
"The government will show its support for those who struggle to improve the standard of living in their areas.
"We are the voice of the people in our communities รน let's work towards bringing a change.
"Developments will only take place if we have the right heart and attitude towards it."
The meeting was held to coincide with the Macuata Provincial Council meeting which convenes in Labasa today.