The old-age adage “volunteers do not have the time, they just have the heart” is a fitting description of Fiji Council of Social Services district volunteer Irene Rose Kumar.
At 58, the Tavua woman is not ready to give up yet on the calling she chose and fell in love with at the age of 18.
Irene’s volunteer journey began four decades ago when she, a successful businesswoman in her own right, was approached by her brother to be an administration officer at the FCOSS district council office.
She was fresh out of high school when she received the humble request but that decision has changed her whole perception of life.
“Since then I have been volunteering,” Irene said. Growing up, she was instilled with Methodist teachings that have become part of her genes.
“For 15 years, I’ve worked and grown as an FCOSS district volunteer. This has helped to shape and dedicate my life to reaching out to the needy and ensuring their needs are met.
“I was a Sunday school teacher at 18 and being the youngest of six siblings, I always had the urge to help.”
The IT teacher owns an eatery inside the Tavua Market. She runs a non-governmental organisation called Women’s Action for Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), which is about 10 years old, and is also the president for the Tavua DCOSS.
Despite her hectic schedule, Irene works hard to ensure the needy within her district are assisted.
Her work as a volunteer has not gone unnoticed.
Two years ago, the Fijian Government recognised her dedication by awarding her with an Order of Fiji medal. During COVID-19, Irene was one of the many volunteers who gave up their time to assist the poor, unemployed and hungry.
“When I see someone on the streets, it’s normal for me to step out and help because it is in my blood.”
For Fijians wish to do community work and try out volunteering, Irene has a special message.
“If you have a passion to work for the community for free, do it, you’ll be greatly blessed. “I am not retiring soon from my work as a volunteer. I will continue because it gives me pride and confidence to help the vulnerable.”
