‘We must grow out of drugs’ — Shafil urges Fijian youths

Youth leader and founder of the Nakasi Youth Club, Mohammed Shafil, is spearheading efforts to keep young people away from drugs and crime through awareness and community engagement.

Mr Shafil said his group has been working to educate unemployed youths on the dangers of drugs and to encourage them to channel their energy into positive activities.

"We youths have to stand up and help our unemployed youths be involved in effective community work," he said.

"Being youths we should contribute positively to our community."

He said the club has capable and educated members who can deliver drug awareness training, but stressed that broader government support is needed.

"Youths must grow out of this mindset of illegal involvement such as drugs," Mr Shafil said.

"We want youths to become great leaders."

The Nakasi Youth Club has also been training young people to engage in priority-based activities, from community leadership to climate change advocacy.

"We want youths to take up leadership roles at community level so they remain productive," Mr Shafil said, adding that more young people are encouraged to join the club.