FNU Foundation Executive Director, Karen Lobendahn (Left) and Value City Managing Director, Vera Chute, at the MoU Signing at FNU Nasinu Campus

The Fiji National University (FNU) Foundation and Value City have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the FNU Nasinu Campus yesterday.

The partnership aims to strengthen student support through the Veilomani Closet initiative, an effort that provides free access to quality clothing and footwear for students in need.

“This is more than a partnership, it’s a shared vision of compassion, empowerment, and sustainability,” said Karen Lobendahn, Executive Director of the FNU Foundation.

“The Veilomani Closet is more than a wardrobe; it is a symbol of dignity and care.”

Through the new agreement, Value City will deliver seven bales of clothing and footwear per month to support FNU Foundation’s Veilomani Closet.

Left to Right – Executive Director, FNU Foundation, Karen Lobendahn and Managing Director, Value City, Vera Chute

Value City Managing Director, Vera Chute, reflected on the legacy of her late father, Value City founder Alick Patrick Chute.

“He believed that dignity should never be a luxury. I am certain he would be proud that we are helping restore pride and confidence in our future leaders.

“We’re not just offering garments, we’re offering students the opportunity to walk into classrooms, interviews, and life with their heads held high,” added Chute.

She also highlighted the environmental aspect of the collaboration, noting that promoting thrifting and extending the life of garments supports a more sustainable, circular economy.

“We aim to raise greater awareness among the younger generation about the benefits of thrifting, so our natural resources may be preserved and allowed to flourish,” she added.

FNU Students and Staff at the MoU Signing earlier today

“As Pacific people, caring for our environment, our home, and our communities should be central to all that we do,” Chute said.

With plans to expand the Veilomani Closet to all FNU campuses across Fiji, both parties called on other organisations to support the cause.