12/10/2026
I’m sitting on a flight home from Fiji, looking out over the Pacific Ocean and reflecting on what has been an incredibly moving weekend with the children of St Philomena Children’s Home. My heart is full of gratitude for everyone who helped make it possible.
This wasn’t simply a weekend away at a resort. For these children, it was something much more meaningful. They told us themselves how special it was and how much it meant to them. And thanked us for keeping our promise 🫶🏻
These children have experienced sadness and trauma that no child should have to face. As a parent myself, it breaks my heart to think of those moments when they don’t have a mum to hug them at the end of a difficult day and reassure them that everything is going to be okay.
One of the most beautiful experiences of the weekend was created by Brando Yelavich, who organised a special tree-planting ceremony. Twenty-one trees were planted, one for each child. Before planting their trees, the children had the opportunity to sit quietly, reflect and share their hopes, dreams and secrets with their trees.
Alex Wilson and I sat with one beautiful young person who became emotional as she reflected on her experiences. “So much sadness,” she said. Watching the tears roll down her face was heartbreaking. It was a powerful reminder of just how much these young people carry and how important it is that they know they are supported, valued and cared for.
Some of the older children are approaching graduation and preparing to take their next steps into the world. They will need opportunities, guidance and people willing to open doors for them. I believe that if we are in a position to help, we have a responsibility to consider how we can make a difference.
So I’m using this platform to reach out to our colleagues, connections and the wider business community. If you can help in any way, please reach out. Whether you can offer an educational opportunity, a scholarship, employment, mentoring or simply connect us with someone who can, we’d love to hear from you. We can connect you directly with St Philomena Home.
A heartfelt thank you to:
Alex and his team at The Pearl South Pacific Resort, Fiji, Todd Scott, VT1S , Liz, Jerome and Kali for your beautiful autographs (wow the smiles when the children saw those!) Hamish Milne and the team at Burnard International Rayglass Boats Calumn Hockey, Brando Yelavich - and all the local businesses and individuals who rallied together to make this weekend possible.
As we fly home, my biggest wish is that this weekend doesn’t become just a beautiful memory. There is so much more we can do. And it starts with connection.
To the children of St Philomena: stay strong, dream big and remember that there are people who believe in you and want to see you succeed.
We are here for you. ❤️
With love,
Lisa Smith Akshat Gupta Billy Williams Mike, and the team at Pacific Errands & 21 Hands .
