"Now is the time to press forward and open the doors of opportunity so that we can rebuild a Fiji that is non-racial, culturally vibrant and united, well governed, inclusive and truly democratic.
"A Fiji that seeks progress and prosperity through merit-based equality of opportunity and peace."
That was the challenge delivered by President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau to all Fijians in his Presidential address to the nation last night.
Taking a page out of the teachings of former American president John F Kennedy, Ratu Epeli said it was time for people to ask what they could do for the country.
"People often comment on how things can or needed to be changed and then just sat around, waiting, fully expecting the government of the day alone, to deliver the goods," Ratu Epeli said.
"We need to change that mind-set and become proactive and say firmly 'how can I or how can we, work with you to actively contribute to moving Fiji forward'."
Ratu Epeli acknowledged the nation had faced its fair share of strife in the past, but he called on all Fijians to fulfill whatever role they played in moving the country on.
"Leaders from all walks of life need to be effective and visionary.
"We need leaders with progressive vision that is motivating, inspiring and most importantly unifying; leaders who are role models and who can make firm and fair decisive decisions."
He also challenged parents to fulfill their duty to their children and raise them with family values and teachings while also calling on youths to shoulder the responsibilities of steering the nation to greater heights.
"You have the strength, the time and the dynamism of youth on your side to make those responsibilities achievable," he said.