The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee raised an impressive $281,100.20 during the week-long festival at Subrail Park in Labasa.

From this gross income, $58, 266 was raised by the 12 queen and king contestants and their sponsors.

This was announced by the committee assistant treasurer Mohammed Saiyum during the final night of the weeklong festival at Subrail Park, Labasa.

He thanked the major sponsor, Vodafone Fiji Limited, co-sponsorsvendors, amusement and entertainment provider and donors.

“The committee has always believed in transparency and accountability and because of this reason we have been continuously sponsored by Vodafone,” Mr Saiyum said.

“We will publish the full account after our annual general meeting.”

The target was $250,000.

He said they would soon begin with the four community projects designed for the Northern Division. The car texting promotion draw will be done towards the end of this month.

Vodafone ATH charity

Meanwhile, the crowning night also saw two non-government organisations (NGO) based in the Northern Division receiving assistance from Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation.

Northern Charity Alliance (NCA) received $10,000 and Northern Horizon and Equalizer Fiji (NHEF) was given $6775.

The cheques were presented by the Vodafone Fiji chief executive officer, Elenoa Buikoto.

Northern Horizon and Equalizer Fiji (NHEF)event coordinator and Northern Charity Alliance (NCA) programme manager Tevita Tokalauvere said: “This donation will enable us to amplify our efforts and create a brighter future for the Northern region’s communities.

From Left: Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committte president Mohammed Rizwaan, Vodafone Fiji Limited chief executive officer Elenoa Biukoto with Northern Charity Alliance project manager Tevita Tokalauvere during the cheque hand over at Subrail Park in Labasa on September 9, 2023. Photo: Shratika Naidu

“Also, it will significantly impact the NCA’s mission to bring about positive changes and improvements in the lives of people.”

He said the Foundation has been assisting NCA since it started in 2012 and recently with the formation of NHEF.

“In addition to this, NCA is elated to receive $13,000 designated specifically for its Gonedau project, which focuses on the empowerment and well-being of the LGBTIQ community in the fisheries sector,” he said.

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