Ra Youth finds Purpose in Service

From the quiet shores of Navuniivi Village in Nakorotubu, Ra, to proudly standing in uniform at the Fiji Corrections Service 150th Anniversary celebrations, 23-year-old Jiacoro Namakadre has come a long way.

The young man was among the 64 Fiji Corrections Service Basic Recruit 1/25 officers who graduated from intense training in March this year, including four recruits from Tonga.

Now based in Taveuni, he was one of the few selected to represent the Northern Division at the closing of the FCS 150th anniversary celebrations in Suva today.

“It’s a proud moment for me and my family,” Jiacoro said.

“Coming from a small village and standing here today wearing this uniform reminds me that nothing is impossible with God.”

After completing secondary school in 2021, Jiacoro remained in his village for three years, helping his parents and contributing to community life. His life changed when the FCS recruitment team visited their area.

“I decided to try my luck,” he said. “I thank God that I was selected. This job has changed my life and given me a chance to serve my country.”

The youngest of 10 siblings, Jiacoro said both his parents, who still live in the village, are proud of his achievement.

“I’m the second in my family to enter the workforce,” he said. “It means a lot to my parents to see their sons in uniform.”

Only two from his village are part of the FCS workforce, and Jiacoro hopes to inspire others to follow the same path.

“My message to those living in the village is simple to don’t give up,” he said.

“Many think they can’t make it, but nothing is impossible with God. Everyone’s journey is different, and if you trust and try, God will make a way.”

As the Fiji Corrections Service marks 150 years of service, Jiacoro’s story reflects the spirit of hope, faith, and determination that continues to shape the institution’s legacy.