About the program
What we do
Language carries identity. Our Language & Culture program runs weekly Vosa Vakaviti (Fijian language) classes for children and adults, alongside meke (dance), masi (tapa cloth) weaving and ceremonial protocol workshops. Whether you grew up speaking Fijian or are learning for the first time, there is a class for you.
Weekly Vosa Vakaviti classes
Beginner, intermediate and conversational streams for adults; Saturday kids' classes (ages 5–14).
Meke & cultural dance
Group rehearsals leading to performances at Fiji Day, Bula Cup and the Melbourne Pasifika Festival.
Masi & weaving
Quarterly masi-printing and pandanus weaving workshops led by community elders.
Protocol & ceremony
Sessions on sevusevu, traditional welcomes and the protocols of yaqona - open to all who want to learn respectfully.
Class timetable (Term 3)
| When | What | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Mon 6:30pm | Vosa Vakaviti - beginners | Footscray Library |
| Wed 7:00pm | Vosa Vakaviti - intermediate | FCAV office, Sunshine |
| Sat 10:00am | Kids' culture school (ages 5-14) | Sunshine Community Hub |
| Sat 1:00pm | Meke rehearsal | Sunshine Community Hub |
Common questions
- Do I need to speak any Fijian to join?
- No. Our beginner stream assumes zero prior knowledge - we start with greetings, family terms and pronunciation.
- Are classes only for Fijians?
- Everyone is welcome. We regularly have partners, in-laws and friends of the community in class.
- How much do classes cost?
- Members attend free. Non-members pay a small term fee of $40 that covers materials.