Friday, May 16th, 2025 will forever be a historic moment in the journey of YWAM Ships in Fiji. Several signatories and key partners were hosted on board the ship to honour and celebrate the appointment of the first Patron of YWAM Ships in Fiji, the Honourable Minister of Policing, Mr. Ioane Naivalurua.
In attendance, along with the Patron, were: Acting Commissioner of Police, Meli Saleki, Fiji Ports COO, Mr De Zoysa, Suva Harbour Master, Captain Laisiasa Gonewai, Fiji Red Cross Health & Care Coordinator, Ms Salote Maramacirici and Swire Shipping Pacific Operations Manager, Shyam Reddy along with other friends and partners.
The Honourable Minister and Patron of YWAM Ships Aotearoa has had a long and distinguished career in public service within the nation of Fiji. With decades of leadership experience, he retired as a Major General in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, and went on to serve as Commissioner of Corrections, Commissioner of Police, Ambassador-at-Large, Ambassador to China, and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs. His lifelong commitment to national service and transformation makes him an inspiring Patron for YWAM Ships in Fiji.
The function was filled with powerful testimonies showcasing the impact of over three years of service that YWAM Ships Aotearoa has already delivered in Fiji.
One of the most memorable moments was the testimony of a young Fijian named Solo, who recently completed the pioneering Discipleship Training School (DTS) at the land-based YWAM Suva base. Solo shared how his time at DTS helped him overcome drug addiction and walk away from his former life as a drug dealer. The room was deeply moved when he publicly apologised to both the Honourable Minister of Police and the Acting Commissioner of Police and committed—before all present—to live a life that will now make a positive difference in the nation.
YWAM Ships Aotearoa exists to empower a healthy future for the Pacific. This story—and many others shared during the evening—are evidence of real transformation already underway. But there is now a shared sense that, with the announcement of our Patron, and our growing partnership with the Fijian Government, our capacity to serve and support the people of Fiji is only just beginning.
In his official remarks, the Patron of YWAM Ships Aotearoa stated:
“YWAM, what you have done for Fiji is incredible. Thank you for your service. But it is my conviction that the Fiji Government needs to do more to support your work in our nation—and as your Patron, it is my commitment to you that I will make sure that that happens.”
For Marty Emmett, Managing Director of YWAM Ships Aotearoa, and all YWAM team members present, it was an honour to hear such a deeply respected national figure express such strong endorsement and commitment to the mission in Fiji. The future is bright, together we will continue to empower a healthy future for the Pacific.