United States national Abigail Smith is one of 12 Peace Corp volunteers who returned to Fiji after three years.
She was welcomed by staff of Peace Corp Fiji in Nadi yesterday as they began a 10-week training camp before embarking on a two-year community engagement in various parts of Viti Levu.
The cohort will begin their service under the Community Economic Empowerment Program (CEEP) this year.
“What I’m most excited for is to not only experience a new culture but to also get to know people and build lasting connections and relationships and hopefully be able to make a difference in the community in Fiji and also have them make a difference in my life as well,” said Ms Smith.
“I’m really excited to be here and I’m so grateful for this opportunity.”
Peace Corp Fiji country director Kury Cobham said this was their first group since the pandemic.
“We have not had a training class for three years,” she said.
“The evacuation in 2020 was such a disheartening moment for everyone in the world and just to have people back to serve the people of Fiji has just been so exciting and heart-warming.”
“For 54 years, communities within Fiji have identified their priorities and Peace Corps has provided trained volunteers to work with local partners towards these goals.
“CEEP is the next chapter in this success story, one where communities will develop the means of economic security.
“Volunteer collaboration and partnership with host villages will embrace inclusivity, encouraging participation from a wide range of community members to achieve community goals.”
