Uto ni Yalo Break-In Breaks Hearts, But Not Spirit

PRESS RELEASE

A cut link from the heavy chain used to secure the Uto ni Yalo Trust container at the National Sailing Centre

[SUVA, 9 May 2025] — The Uto ni Yalo Trust is heartbroken to share that our container at the National Sailing Centre was broken into, and essential tools for our canoe-building project were stolen.

These tools were integral to our deeper mission of supporting communities through the revival of traditional sailing and canoe-building knowledge.

Stolen items included:

• router (x2)

• jigsaw (x2)

• grinder

• orbital sander

• drill (x2)

This theft has directly disrupted the progress of our current work at the National Sailing Centre. It also comes only weeks after the outboard motor for our tender was stolen — another blow to our small but determined team.

But while our hearts are heavy, our spirit is not broken.

The meaning of Uto ni Yalo (the heart of the spirit) guides us to carry on. These setbacks will not stop our work. They only deepen our resolve.

As a non-profit organisation, we rely on partnerships and public support to sustain our work and we are humbled by the support already offered since the news began to circulate. For those who wish to stand with us and help restore what was lost, your support—big or small—means everything right now.

To support or connect with us, please reach out to team@utoniyalo.org

ENDS

Media Contact:

Dylan Kava | Mobile: +679 906 1989 | Email: dylan.kava@gmail.com 

Matelita Buadromo | Mobile: +679 992 7556 | Email: matelitaratu@yahoo.com