A leader in Fiji’s bottled mineral water space was acknowledged at the 43rd Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants congress at the weekend for his dedication to furthering investments in Fiji.

Accountants paid tribute to the late David Gilmour, founder of internationally-recognised FIJI Water, for his business efforts.

Mr Gilmour, a Canadian business leader who also owned Wakaya Island – a private island resort said to be like no other – died early this month at the age of 92.

Mr Gilmour was instrumental with his investments in Fiji, said Sun Insurance director Deven Sharma.

“We are indebted to people like him who treat Fiji as home,” he said.

“It’s a product of Fiji branding, a premium product.

“We are indebted.”

Mr Gilmour gave Fiji the prominence of quality product, making FIJI Water the world’s number one water.

“We need entrepreneurs like him who have Fiji at heart,” Mr Sharma said.

“Fiji needs entrepreneurs with a lot of flair. You don’t have to be born in Fiji. You can be born anywhere.”

Mr Sharma was in Auckland when Mr Gilmour wanted set up a bottling plant.

“I remembered in the 90s when he started FIJI Water, how it propelled Fiji forward,” Mr Sharma said.

Mr Gilmour bought Wakaya Island and founded Wakaya Club & Spa, a luxury resort.

He built a village and a school for his Fiji workers.

Story by: Waisea Nasokia – waisean@fijisun.com.fj