The Fehikuramaa initiative, launched in 2021 as part of Velaa Private Island’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, continues to pave the way for sustainable practices in the Noonu Atoll. By focusing on the 13 local islands, the initiative recognises the symbiotic relationship between resorts and the surrounding communities, embodying Velaa owner Smejc’s commitment to providing equal care and resources to all islands in the Atoll.
Year Four of Fehikuramaa: Homemade and Handcrafted Solutions
2024 marked the fourth year of the Fehikuramaa initiative with its “Homemade” theme. The initiative encouraged local communities to embrace sustainability through hands-on workshops promoting waste reduction, recycling, and eco-friendly practices such as creating homemade cosmetics, cleaning products, and reusing waste materials for functional items. This theme celebrated the environmental, economic, and health benefits of crafting by hand rather than relying on manufactured products.
Velaa Private Island donated shredders to all 13 islands of Noonu Atoll as part of this year’s programme and generous donation from a guest of the island. This support reinforces the Atoll’s ongoing composting initiatives, enabling easier conversion of food waste into valuable resources. To foster awareness among children, interactive workshops focused on sustainable practices were held, nurturing the next generation’s commitment to reducing, reusing, and recycling.
Additionally, Velaa spearheaded initiatives for greener living by collaborating with councils and local businesses to introduce bulk selling systems and advocate for the farm-to-table concept. This was complemented by the distribution of greenhouses and hydroponic systems to all islands, with training provided by a local NGO. These developments aim to bolster the Atoll’s self-sufficiency in growing vegetables and herbs, marking a milestone as Noonu Atoll’s first greenhouse project comes to fruition.
Supporting Noonu Family and Children Service Centre
A cornerstone of the 2024 Fehikuramaa initiative was its ongoing support of Manadhoo Amaan Veshi Centre, a home for girls in state care established in 2022. The centre provides education, structure, and a nurturing familial environment for children from challenging backgrounds until they mature or are reintegrated with family members. While the government provides for basic needs, the centre relies heavily on donations for extracurricular activities that enrich the children’s development.
This year, Velaa upgraded the centre’s meeting room to enhance its functionality and implemented an outdoor library designed as a tranquil space to foster reading and learning. These enhancements reflect Velaa’s enduring dedication to nurturing education and personal growth for the children at Manadhoo Amaan Veshi Centre.
Strengthening Environmental Stewardship
2024 also saw the Fehikuramaa initiative deepen its commitment to environmental stewardship. Building on previous successes addressing waste management and plastic pollution, this year’s efforts expanded community-driven solutions while maintaining an emphasis on education and sustainability.
“We are proud of what Fehikuramaa has achieved in its fourth year. These efforts showcase our unwavering commitment to sustainable development and our belief in creating long-lasting benefits for the communities of Noonu Atoll,” said Wayne Milgate, General Manager of Velaa Private Island.
As Fehikuramaa completes its fourth year, Velaa Private Island looks forward to continuing its legacy of meaningful contributions to the well-being and sustainability of the Noonu Atoll communities in the years to come.
