The Executive Committee
Hon. Mr. Akmal Ali
President and Founder
In the five years of its existence, the Basic Diplomacy Training Programme run by UNA Fiji has gone from strength to strength under President Ali’s leadership, with over 300 people having been trained. Mr. Ali is a passionate believer in the concept of leadership through the art of diplomacy with the spirit of leaving no one behind, and he continues to grow UNA Fiji through his vision.
With over 20 years of experience in working with stakeholders from local, national, regional, and global levels, Mr. Ali is a strong advocate for global citizenship education and specializes in the areas of Pacific Development, Human Development, Humanitarian Work, Governance, and High-Level Political Advocacy.
He serves as the Chairperson of the Steering Committee of the Royal Commonwealth Society of Fiji (RCS), and is the UN Representative and Special Advisor on the Pacific for PEAC Institute New York, as well as serving as an Adviser for Reverse the Trend New York.
He has been employed at the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO) since 2015 and is currently the Networking and Capacity Innovation Officer. In this role he works with the national liaison units (NLUs) of PIANGO in 24 Pacific countries and territories, translating the relevant international and regional commitments to the national and grassroots agenda. He works closely with START Network helping to design the Pacific Hub (Humanitarian Hub). He is also entrusted with networking and maintaining partnerships on behalf of PIANGO with partners and stakeholders at all levels. He has represented PIANGO and the Pacific in several high-level international meetings, such as the UN HLPF 2019 and the G20 Summit 2020, and is currently serving as a member of the C20 International Advisory Committee for the G20 Summit Italy 2021.
Mr. Ali graduated with a Bachelor of Arts - Majors: Politics and Sociology, Minor in Social Studies in 2009 from the University of the South Pacific (USP), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Policy and Administration from USP as well in 2012. He has developed his career holding a variety of positions through which he proved his remarkable leadership skills. Amongst these positions, he was the first Secretary-General and Founder of USP Students’ Association Federal Office, coordinating the student’s activities and being their voice at the University Council; an intergovernmental organization representing 12 member Governments of the Pacific.
While he has presented on, and been part of many panels and conferences around the world, the one close to his heart is being invited to Oxford University in the United Kingdom in 2012 to be a presenter and a panelist on the topic of Muslim Diaspora in Fiji and the Pacific.
While Mr. Ali has successfully passed numerous training and certifications a few to highlight are; The Induction Course to Diplomatic Service in 2015 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Public Service Commission for the Government of Fiji. A Trainer of Trainers Certification in Leadership Development Program in 2016 by LEAD | Centre For Not For Profit Leadership, New Zealand. Funded by The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, United States of America (USA). He has further completed Dan Dorrs: Diploma Advanced Leadership Training and also the Mastery of Being and Facilitation, the USA in 2018.
If not working, Mr. Ali loves to cook, socialize, and entertain friends and guests by hosting dinners at his home.
Hon. Mr. Mohammed Muzzain Ud-Dean
Vice-President
Hon. Mr. Mohammed Muzzain Ud-Dean, currently serving as the Vice-President of UNA Fiji. In this role, Mr. Ud-Dean will be assisting the President in all administrative matters and policymaking, furthermore, works with the trainees and members of UNA Fiji to help them strengthen the skills taught at UNA Fiji.
Previously, Mr. Ud-Dean was the Secretary of UNA Fiji where he held a pivotal role as the Chief Record Keeper of the Association. In accordance with the constitution, he shoulders crucial administrative responsibilities, including maintaining a comprehensive membership register, conducting general correspondence, and ensuring the timely preparation of reports. Mr. Ud-Dean played a central role in organizing meetings, diligently maintaining records, and updating essential files. His dedication is integral to the efficient functioning and organization of UNA Fiji, as he adeptly manages critical documentation and fosters effective communication both within the membership and with external stakeholders.
Before taking on the mantle of Secretary, Mr. Ud-Dean contributed significantly to the Office of the President at UNA Fiji, where he served as the Deputy Executive Officer. Prior to this, he served as a Co-Opted member, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the organization's mission. Currently a third-year Bachelor of Law student at the University of Fiji, he brings a robust academic background to his role, further enhancing the Association's capabilities.
Mr. Ud-Dean is an esteemed alumnus of Swami Vivekananda High School and Nadi Muslim College. During his high school tenure, he garnered numerous accolades in mathematics, science, and technical science, showcasing his aptitude for academic excellence. He actively assumed various leadership roles during this time, underscoring his dedication to community engagement and personal growth.
Mr. Ud-Dean's professional experience includes a stint as a Branch Manager for National Hire, where he honed his managerial and organizational skills. He continues to collaborate closely with his cousin in managing Automotive Supercentre Fiji and oversees the operations of his mother's driving school, New Way Driving School. His support extends to fostering student associations, most notably contributing to the formation of the School of Law Student Association at the University of Fiji. In this capacity, he currently serves as the Interim Secretary and played a pivotal role in drafting the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Sciences Student Body Constitution.
In 2022, Mr. Ud-Dean successfully completed the Basic Diplomacy Training Programme and distinguished himself as the Graduate Speaker and Best Delegate, showcasing his prowess in diplomacy and negotiation. Alongside his pursuit of a Law Degree, he has earned accreditation from the High Performance Academy in New Zealand as a certified performance tuner for automotive applications. Additionally, Mr. Ud-Dean serves as UNA Fiji's focal point to the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) and leads climate action initiatives for the organization at prominent forums, including the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network (PICAN).
Beyond his commitment to volunteerism and academics, Mr. Ud-Dean is an enthusiastic motorcycle rider and an active member of the Fiji Motorcycle Association. He has a fervent passion for water sports, encompassing activities such as fishing, jet skiing, and snorkeling. Outside of his adventurous pursuits, Mr. Ud-Dean finds solace in connecting with nature. Born in Lautoka, he has deep roots in Nadi, where he was raised and currently resides, solidifying his commitment to the local community and its continued growth.
Hon. Mr. Vipin Maharaj
Secretary
Hon. Mr. Vipin Maharaj presently serving as the Secretary of UNA Fiji, holds a pivotal role as the Chief Record Keeper of the Association. In accordance with the Constitution, he shoulders crucial administrative responsibilities, including maintaining a comprehensive membership register, conducting general correspondence, and ensuring the timely preparation of reports. Mr. Maharaj plays a central role in organizing meetings, diligently maintaining records, and updating essential files. His dedication is integral to the efficient functioning and organization of UNA Fiji, as he adeptly manages critical documentation and fosters effective communication both within the membership and with external stakeholders.
Mr. Vipin Maharaj assumed the position of Secretary after a successful tenure as the Deputy Secretary. Mr. Maharaj has been an integral part of the organization since joining in 2020, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to its mission and objectives.
His involvement in Diplomacy Training is noteworthy, having progressed from the role of Assistant Coordinator in the Basic Diplomacy Training Program 2021 to ultimately becoming the Coordinator in 2022. In 2023, he served as the Deputy Coordinator, showcasing his evolving leadership within the organization.
Mr. Maharaj is pursuing a Bachelor of Law (LLB) at the University of the South Pacific, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence. With a keen interest in legal affairs, he aspires to leverage his education to take on the role of Attorney General and specialize as a criminal lawyer, particularly in handling cold cases.
His passion for global affairs and politics is evident in his multifaceted contributions. As the Secretary of UNA Fiji, Mr. Maharaj not only oversees administrative responsibilities but also represents the organization in various forums. Notably, he serves as UNA Fiji's representative at the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), collaborating with the Pacific Human Rights Network. Additionally, he holds a pivotal position on the FALE Fiji steering committee as the National Youth Representative.
Mr. Maharaj's dedication extends beyond UNA Fiji; he is the General Secretary-elect for the Youth Assembly of Fiji (YAF), responsible for the Central, Eastern, Western, and Northern divisions. His leadership in youth engagement underscores his commitment to fostering positive change within the community.
Before his involvement with UNA Fiji, Mr. Maharaj showcased leadership abilities as the Rishikul Sanatan College Culture Committee Student President for two years, culminating his service in January 2021. In 2018, he served as the Vice-President of the same committee, demonstrating a consistent commitment to cultural and educational initiatives.
A firm believer in avoiding judgment based on preconceptions and appearances, Mr. Maharaj emphasizes the importance of fair and unbiased perspectives.
Beyond his professional pursuits, he finds joy in traveling, indulging in games, watching crime and suspense-filled series, and immersing himself in the world of music.
In crafting a professional narrative, Mr. Vipin Maharaj emerges as a dynamic and forward-thinking individual, contributing significantly to the spheres of diplomacy, human rights, and youth empowerment. His academic pursuits and diverse leadership roles underscore his dedication to personal and professional growth.
Hon. Ms. Sweta Kumar
Treasurer
Ms. Sweta Kumar is an Executive Committee Member who serves as the Treasurer in the Office of the Treasurer.
Ms. Kumar has previously served as the Secretary of UNA Fiji from 7 August 2021 to 9 April 2022, prior to which she also served as an Executive Committee Member.
She has made remarkable progress in the organization which she joined in 2019 when she completed the Basic Diplomacy Training Programme successfully.
Ms. Sweta believes that the Basic Diplomacy Training Programme will help an individual learn and gain more knowledge about global issues and develop leadership skills. This program will help individuals gain confidence and will enable them to stand in the crowd all alone.
Ms. Sweta is currently a Third-year university student pursuing her studies in Bachelor of Commerce Double Majoring in Management and Tourism Studies at the University of the South Pacific. She is a recipient of the National Topper Scholarship.
During her high school days at Vashist Muni College located in Navua, she served as the Student Council Secretary in 2019 and Assistant Secretary in 2018.
Ms. Sweta loves dancing, listening to music and swimming. She is from the Anaconda town, Navua.
Hon. Ms. Arci Singh
Executive Committee Member
Ms. Arci Singh is an Executive Committee Member as well as Deputy Coordinator of the Basic Diplomacy Training
Programme of the United Nations Association of Fiji. She had graduated from the Basic Diplomacy Training Programme in 2018 and has actively been part of the Coordination of new trainees classes since then.
Ms. Arci believes that the programme gives exposure to everyone on how the United Nations functions and how it brings out talents in individuals through the course of the programme.
Ms. Arci is working towards completing a Diploma in Prosecution at the University of the South Pacific and also plans to further her studies in the field of Psychology.
In University, she has volunteered with USP Campus Life Buddy Programme. The goal is to help first-year students transition into university life.
Ms. Arci has been employed in Mindpearl as a Customer Sales and Service Representative for the past 2 years.
Hobbies include reading, watching movies, listening to music, and crafting
Hon. Mr. Craig Ricardo
Executive Committee Member
Craig Jonathan Theodore Ricardo is the Chief Protocol Officer who works with the United Nations Association of Fiji (UNA Fiji) to ensure that practices within events are well coordinated and well communicated to ensure proper behaviour throughout the events.
Craig believes that in order for events to begin and conclude successfully, one must pay attention to the most minute details all the way to the most striking ones to ensure that invited guests and members alike are comfortable and up to date with the program proceedings so no one is left out of the loop. It also takes communication and the willingness to ask questions about others to note down certain habits and behaviours in order to make events more welcoming to them. Such lessons had been taught and learnt during his time as a trainee during the 2022 BDTP batch. The training had opened his mind not only to the world around him but also to the world of others as he had previously not known before. Thus, is why he strives to perform his best in the work he does.
Craig was also member of the Hospitality Team of UNA Fiji. He helped in the setup of refreshments and catering for both honoured guests and fellow members along with his fellow team members ensuring that no one was left lacking in terms of service and basic needs throughout the day.
Craig is a trained individual who graduated from the BDTP batch of 2022 where he learned how to negotiate with others, break down problems to it's core and come up with solutions as well as learning how to deliver solutions to various problems and not to reply as taught by the Hon. President, Mr. Akmal Ali.
Craig is currently studying for a degree in the field of marine science in the University of The South Pacific (USP) to learn more about the marine resources and marine life in order to contribute to the longevity and prosperity of one of the Pacific's greatest resources for the generations to come.
Hon. Ms. Kelera
Executive Committee Member
Kelera is an Active UNA Fiji member, serving as an Executive Committee member and the Hospitality Coordinator for UNA Fiji. Her involvement in these roles showcases her leadership abilities and her commitment to making a difference in her community.
Her excellent rapport with peers and the general public is a testament to her strong communication skills, honed through her education and experiences. Holding an Advanced Certificate in Information Technology from 2010 and having completed communication skills training at Fiji National University from 2012 to 2013, Kelera demonstrates a keen ability to adapt and communicate effectively in various situations.
Kelera's skill set also includes flexibility, adaptability, and a quick learning ability, as evidenced by her completion of courses such as Basic Fire Extinguisher training in 2015-2016 and Basic Level Defensive Driving Course in 2018. She approaches challenges with a positive attitude and critical thinking, attributes further developed through her participation in leadership training, financial management courses, and capacity-building programs.
With a strong foundation in computer skills and a commitment to honesty, integrity, and punctuality, Kelera has a track record of success in various roles. Her experience as a Registry Officer from 2010, Administrative Clerk at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry from 2006 to 2007, and Receptionist at nzptc in 2008-2009, has equipped her with valuable skills in office management, customer service, and administrative tasks.
Kelera's dedication to continuous improvement is evident in her participation in various training programs and her commendation awards. She is known for her creativity, tolerance, and ability to coach others, contributing positively to team efforts and organizational goals.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kelera Tamani is a dedicated and efficient professional known for her detail-oriented approach and exceptional competency. With a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, she excels in every task she undertakes. Organized and driven, Kelera consistently strives to achieve the best results possible.