Wakaniyasi laid to rest

Families, friends, and colleagues gathered yesterday to bid farewell to beloved to their champion, Joshco Wakaniyasi.

Mr Wakaniyasi died on March 18, after a short illness.

Speaking at the homegoing service, Tanoa International Hotel general manager Daniel Roy said Mr Wakaniyasi would always be remembered for the impact he had on people’s lives.

“Joshco had a wonderful impact on our team at Tanoa International Hotel,” Mr Roy said.

“His guidance and his assistance for us in understanding the needs of the disability especially during the 7th Pacific Regional Conference on Disability that was held at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi.

“Joshco will always be remembered as a very professional individual who always wanted to make a difference and also assist individuals who want to also make a difference in the lives of other individuals.”

Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation executive Ambalika Devi Prakash said Mr Wakaniyasi was a exemplary executive advocate for the disabled who will be sorely missed.

“Who has made such a profound impact on the lives of many, including our families,” she said.

“Your contribution to families and communities is immeasurable.

“You are and will always be a true champion and the pure heart of inclusivity.”

Mr Wakaniyasi was the Manager Inclusive Development at the Pacific Disability Forum at the time of his passing.

He was a council member of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, board member of the Fiji Council of Social Services, group member of the Sustainable Development Goals Fund and was on the steering committee of the United Nations Volunteers program.

In his advocacy for disability friendly offices and premises in Fiji, Mr Wakaniyasi led the access audit project in ensuring that building environments were accessible to persons with disabilities.