2025

𝐔𝐍𝐀 𝐅𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝟑𝟔 𝐀𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲

The United Nations Association of Fiji (UNA Fiji) successfully launched its Junior Diplomacy Training Programme (JDTP) 2025 on Saturday, 29 March 2025 at the Dudley High School, Toorak, Suva, marking another milestone in its mission to cultivate future leaders and diplomats.

The orientation was led by the President and Founder of UNA Fiji, Mr. Akmal Ali, who provided an overview of the association’s journey since its establishment in 2014.

With a vision to create active and engaged global citizens, UNA Fiji has trained over 473 individuals through its diplomacy training Programmes.

Mr. Ali mentioned that UNA Fiji has been a key player in environmental conservation, planting over 27,000 mangroves to date.

In a significant development, Mr. Ali announced that UNA Fiji has received confirmation of its induction into the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) in May 2025.

This historic achievement makes UNA Fiji the first UNA in the Pacific, strengthening its commitment to global citizenship and sustainable development.

The trainees were honoured to be addressed by the Chief Guest, the Permanent Secretary of the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Raijeli Taga, who highlighted the far-reaching impact of diplomacy on national and regional progress.

She underscored Fiji’s leadership in critical areas such as renewable energy, education, and connectivity, citing the successful partnership that brought Google to Fiji.

Dr. Taga emphasized the necessity of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and international organizations to achieve shared objectives, particularly as Fiji prepares to host the upcoming Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) meeting.

Samoan High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Mr. Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia, encouraged the trainees to embrace empathy, humility, and a commitment to service.

He urged aspiring leaders to elevate their voices, seek collaborative opportunities, and master self-governance—an essential foundation for effective diplomacy.

In closing remark, His Excellency Mr. Elisaia posed a thought-provoking challenge, asking whether they were up to the task and had what it takes to be leaders and diplomats.

Joining the event virtually, Secretary General of WFUNA, His Excellency Mr. Ariel Philippos Goulandris announced that UNA Fiji will become WFUNA’s 96th member in May 2025—a historic moment as it marks the first-ever presence of a UNA in the Pacific.

He stressed the importance of understanding diplomatic processes in solving global issues and highlighted education as a key driver of peace and sustainable development.

Mr. Goulandris also emphasised the crucial role of lobbying and advocacy in shaping international policies, urging young diplomats to harness their influence for meaningful global change.

Basic Diplomacy Training Programme (BDTP) 2024 graduate trainee Ms. Naomi Sinutalei shared three key lessons: embrace your background as a strength, value human connection in diplomacy, and commit to lifelong learning.

Ms. Sinutalei also reminded trainees of their responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of attendance, punctuality, curiosity, and community service—the core values of diplomacy.

The event concluded with an inspiring address and vote of thanks UNA Fiji’s Peacebuilding Advisor, Hon. Ms. Koila Costello who reminded the trainees that their participation in JDTP 2025 was both a privilege and a responsibility.

She urged them to embrace their roles as future leaders of Fiji, recognizing the significance of their contributions to shaping the country’s future.

With Class, Dignity and Elegance

#UNAFiji

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025


𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐌𝐄 (𝐉𝐃𝐓𝐏) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 #𝟏 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟎𝟓 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓. 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐂𝐎𝐋.

This week’s class was initiated by the Honorable President Mr. Akmal Ali, who held a discussion on the core values of leadership to the JDTP trainees of 2025. His focus extended beyond traditional leadership definitions, emphasizing the crucial role educators play in fostering active and engaged Fijian citizens.

President Ali emphasized the need to cultivate not just knowledgeable students, but individuals prepared to participate meaningfully in their communities and contribute to the progress of Fiji, highlighting a responsibility extending beyond the classroom and into national development.

The class was also facilitated by the Honorable Secretary of UNA Fiji Mr. Vipin Maharaj who engaged the trainees in a comprehensive discussion encompassing community impact projects, beginning with an analysis of past successful projects such as those of BDTP 2024 and those that have preceded before, and culminating in the design and planning of a new one.

The discussions about the community impact project highlights three main points to the trainees:

1. Aligning their proposed project with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and understanding how their efforts could contribute to tangible progress on social, climate, and development issues.

2. The facets of project management - defining logistics, establishing operational protocol, and developing compelling pitches to potential donors.

3. Emphasis on leadership skills, collaborative teamwork, and effective communication both in presenting their plan and securing necessary support and providing a practical understanding of how to translate good intentions into measurable community benefit and SDG advancement.

The class was also facilitated and concluded by Mr. Ram, whose session complemented leadership discussions by providing essential training on United Nations protocols and organizational structure, alongside practical instruction in the standard diplomatic etiquettes such as formal dining and Protocol, which included formal methods of greeting and addressing and proper salutations.

With Class, Dignity & Elegance

#UNAFiji

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025


𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐌𝐄 (𝐉𝐃𝐓𝐏) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 #𝟐 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘, 𝟏𝟐 𝐀𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓. 𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔

Hon. Mr. Shivnesh Ram began this week’s session with a foundational overview of the United Nations, ranging from its inception to its functions as an international body, followed by instructions on the application of diplomatic language.

The session then transitioned into an introspective and transformative module titled “All About You”, led by Hon. Mr. Akmal Ali, President and Founder of UNA Fiji. This session emphasized that leadership must begin with the understanding of self.

Mr. Ali articulated that true diplomacy and leadership stem from self-awareness, integrity, and personal responsibility. He asserted that effective leaders must first recognize their own limitations, cultivate emotional intelligence, and practice continuous self-improvement.

Mr. Ali further imparted valuable leadership principles, emphasizing that genuine leadership is defined by service to others, rather than the expectation of being served. He challenged trainees to embody these principles, differentiating the trainees from conventional leadership models.

The afternoon session was particularly powerful, focusing on self-reflection and emotional resilience. Trainees engaged in open conversations about their personal challenges, with Mr. Ali encouraging them to acknowledge their flaws, ignore negativity, and embrace their truth.

He reinforced that self-love and forgiveness are critical to personal growth and authentic leadership. Importantly, he reminded trainees that, “One must have enough for themselves before they can share with others,” highlighting the need for internal strength before external service.

With Class, Dignity & Elegance

#UNAFiji

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025


𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐌𝐄 (𝐉𝐃𝐓𝐏) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 #𝟑 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘, 𝟎𝟑 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 (𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝)

The third class of the Junior Diplomacy Training Programme (JDTP) 2025 was built on the reflective journey begun in the “All About You” session led by Hon. Mr. Akmal Ali. This session shifted focus toward practical leadership skills grounded in self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and service to others.

A key lesson was listening to understand, not to reply. Trainees engaged in interactive activities that strengthened their ability to listen mindfully, helping them foster trust and better communication, skills essential for any diplomatic leader.

The importance of reflection was also emphasized. Trainees took time to examine their motivations, leadership styles, and decision-making habits. The session reiterated that effective leadership must be intentional and self-aware, not just reactive.

Participants were encouraged to develop a people-oriented leadership style, one rooted in humility, compassion, and shared responsibility. They learned to avoid blaming others and instead focus on accountability and problem-solving. Another key teaching was the value of paying attention to people, behaviours, and group dynamics. Practical observation exercises highlighted how thoughtful awareness can prevent conflict and support team cohesion.

In the second half of the session, trainees began planning their Community Impact Project. Facilitated by Mr. Vipin Maharaj, the trainees drafted proposals and conducted donor mapping. This hands-on segment connected personal leadership development with real-world action.

The session concluded with a strong reminder that leadership begins within. Echoing Mr. Ali’s words, trainees left inspired to lead with purpose, presence, and compassion.

With Class, Dignity & Elegance

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025

#UNAFiji

@followers



𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐌𝐄 (𝐉𝐃𝐓𝐏) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 #𝟒 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘, 𝟏𝟎 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐔𝐍 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝟏𝟎𝟏

The session commenced with Mr. Ram’s recap of the UN Body, its organizations, and agencies, providing a comprehensive overview of the global system. The discussions also encompassed the rules of membership into forums such as the UN General Assembly and Security Council, ensuring that the trainees had a sound understanding of the governing principles and procedures that guide the United Nations.

Furthermore, Mr. Ram highlighted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), their associated targets and indicators, and emphasized the vital role that every country plays in achieving these goals by 2030. This foundational knowledge prepared the trainees for a more in-depth engagement with the topics discussed throughout the session.

The trainees then participated in discussions on points and motions for the upcoming Model UN simulation. Mr. Shivnesh Ram took the lead in facilitating a detailed and interactive session on points, skillfully guiding the trainees through their meanings, uses, and strategic applications during MUN debates. Mr. Maharaj complemented this by introducing motions and providing an overview of how they function within formal debate structures.

Additionally, Mr. Maharaj held a briefing on the logistics of the Community Impact Project (CIP) for JDTP 2025, clarifying key implementation steps and expectations.

The session concluded with a reflective segment led by Mr. Akmal Ali, who encouraged trainees to assess their individual strengths and areas for growth. He asked the trainees to figure out ways in which they could turn their weaknesses into their strengths.

He further encouraged an open dialogue on the CIP, empowering participants to understand how their unique capabilities could contribute to a meaningful and sustainable impact in their communities.

With Class, Dignity and Elegance

#UNAFiji

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025


𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐌𝐄 (𝐉𝐃𝐓𝐏) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 #𝟓 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐀𝐘, 𝟏𝟕 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐔𝐍 𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐀𝐂𝐘 𝟏𝟎𝟏 – 𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐒 & 𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒

The class began with Hon. Vice President of UNA Fiji, Mr. Shivneet Kumar, elaborating on the key aspects of points and motions for Model UN summation.

He underscored the importance of adhering to the correct structure of raising points and moving motions while also emphasizing the importance of presentation to ensure a productive and effective summation.

This foundational knowledge is crucial for trainees to grasp in order to navigate the complexities of diplomacy in Model UN debates.

The afternoon training session progressed with Mr. Shivneet Kumar guiding the trainees through the flow of debate, enabling them to comprehend the sequential progression of discussions.

Additionally, Mr. Kumar covered the procedural aspects of summation, outlining the necessary steps for a successful summation, thereby equipping the trainees with a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter.

The trainees were then engaged in practice sessions, applying the concepts they had learned to reinforce their understanding.

With Class, Dignity and Elegance

#UNAFiji

#ActiveFijianCitizens

#ActiveGlobalCitizens

#JDTP2025


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