The Story of Selfless Fiji

Spreading across Fiji a remarkable initiative driven by compassion and fuelled by people and technology – Selfless Fiji.

Founded by Solomone Rabuli, Selfless Fiji is not just an non-government organisation (NGO); it’s a movement that empowers communities through volunteerism while leveraging modern tools to amplify its impact.

Originating from Navunisole Village in Tailevu, Solomone, also known as Solo, wears multiple hats.

Alongside his role as a securities consultant with ANZ Bank Fiji, he dedicates himself to Selfless Fiji’s mission.

Balancing between the corporate world and the NGO sector, Mr Rabuli embraces the challenges, believing that life’s essence lies in overcoming obstacles.

Officially established in November 2021 with a humble team of 20 volunteers at St Christopher Orphanage, the organisation has now flourished to encompass over 1800 members across Fiji.

Mr Rabuli’s vision, coupled with relentless determination, set the stage for such exponential growth.

He attributes much of this success to the unwavering support from volunteers, friends, family, donors, and supporters.

“I am to be honest, a self driven individual and aspire to create great things so there was no surprise in the growth of Selfless Fiji. From day one, the goals were set and vision in mind.” Mr Rabuli said.

From 0 to 2000 volunteers

Technology stands as a cornerstone of Selfless Fiji’s operations and growth.

From the inception of the organisation, Mr Rabuli recognised the pivotal role of technology in streamlining processes and amplifying reach.

The organisation boasts a dedicated Social Media Team comprising innovative individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Their social media strategy extends beyond promotion; it is a platform for empowerment and advocacy.

By sharing success stories, highlighting volunteer efforts, and showcasing the impact of their work, the organisation inspires others to join the movement.

The Selfless Fiji volunteering platform.

Through active engagement and consistent updates, Selfless Fiji’s social media platforms have become hubs of inspiration and mobilisation.

Mary Donuya, a volunteer with Selfless Fiji, shared her journey from volunteer to social media enthusiast.

Her experience at Father Law Home, Wailekutu, Lami, ignited her passion for storytelling.

Now, as part of the social media team, Mary leverages her creativity to showcase the impact of Selfless Fiji’s volunteers through videos, pictures, and captivating narratives.

“For me, highlighting the positive impact (through video/pictures) that Selfless Fiji volunteers showcase and the differences that the volunteers make in the community to inspire others to join, is the reason why I share these success stories.” Ms Donuya shared.

Viber, another digital tool in Selfless Fiji’s arsenal, serves as a virtual meeting ground for volunteers.

Here, they exchange ideas, co-ordinate projects, and foster a sense of community.

This seamless integration of digital communication platforms enhances efficiency and connectivity within the organisation.

The organisation’s website serves as a hub for volunteers, donors, and supporters.

Utilising Softr and Airtable, the website facilitates volunteer registration, efficient communication, activity organisation, and global awareness of Selfless Fiji’s endeavours.

“Compared to when we began as a group with manually communicating with keen volunteers to what we are at now, such a big difference with every aspect of our work digitised.” Mr Rabuli said.

Through the website and volunteering platform, Selfless Fiji seamlessly organises volunteers, shares information efficiently, records data securely, and showcases its impactful work to the world.

Grassroots advice

Mr Rabuli’s advice to grassroots founders resonates with his own journey – follow your passion relentlessly, and with unwavering faith and support, grassroots initiatives can transcend barriers and catalyse change.

“Everything begins with small steps and leads to great things , stick to your journey no matter how difficult, discouraging and hopeless it may become, keep going with any support you gather on the way,” Mr Rabuli advised.

Looking ahead, Selfless Fiji embarks on an ambitious trajectory.

The organisation aims to extend its reach to more communities, collaborating with established NGOs and empowering marginalised groups. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a physical space for community engagement and diversify initiatives across Fiji.

By: Shenal Harakh

• Shenal Harakh is the founder of her eponymous software development agency Shenal (www.shenal.online), which builds tech products for startup clients around the world.She is currently based in Fiji and is running workshops to digitally upskill communities. Head to https://fiji.shenal.online/ to sign up and keep up to date with new workshops, or follow her work on LinkedIn: Shenal Harakh or Twitter: @shenalyo.

 Notes from the author

• Selfless Fiji’s growth is a perfect example of hard work, passion and resourcefulness coming together. What strikes me most about Mr Rabuli’s story is the savvy use of everyday tech - social media and Viber to grow his mission.
• Complex technology or processes don’t need to be used to grow your organisation, and so much can be done by simply engaging a community online.