BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
BARTHOLOMEW Leinga, a village boy from Ugi Island in Makira/Ulawa province, never visited Honiara but was intrigued by the opportunity to work as a volunteer at this year’s XVII Pacific Games 2023.
Leinga, a father-of-four, was surprised to be part of this year’s XVII Pacific Games 2023 after being recruited by the NIA Organic Farmers Association in the Ugi Islands, Makira Province.
“I was chosen as a volunteer for the Games by the association. I live at my home village in Makira province; I don’t live in Honiara. However, I was working for one of my brothers, who was awarded a contract for the Pacific Games. I travel to Honiara in this manner,’ he told RAW SPORTS.
Leinga said his main role as a cleaner at the XVII Pacific Games 2023 is to make sure the environment is safe, clean, and tidy within the Games City venues at this year’s Sol2023 Pacific Games.
“Actually, we collaborate with cleaners. Our primary responsibility is to ensure that the area is clean and tidy, and we make sure trash bins are properly disposed. I’m very happy. I’ve never worked on a major event like this before. Since I am a village boy.
“On the other hand, this is typical for me at work. I have become accustomed to performing tasks at home, like cleaning,” he said.
Leinga considered it a blessing to be able to volunteer at the sports city location, where he could meet new people and, most importantly, witness this year’s XVII Pacific Games.
“I had an opportunity to watch the Games and interact with few visitors from the Pacific Islands. We have four groups, so I worked from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thus, we typically work our shifts. His hours are short; watch the game or head home. I am happy because I have free time to watch few competitions and eat a free lunch,” he explained.
