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Meet our team: Peni’s mission to promote accountability, transparency and social justice
Peni Moi Lesikimatuku Vula, who hails from Wailevu Ravitaki in Kadavu with maternal links to Lawaki Nairai, is a dedicated financial and administrative professional with a passion for driving inclusive change.
With a background in financial management and administration, Peni’s vision is that the work supports the marginalised and promotes gender equity, whether indirectly or directly
Peni, who recently joined the Pacific Women Lead and the Pacific Community (PWL at SPC) as a Finance and Grants Officer, says he is inspired by the programme’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive development:
“It’s deeply motivating to contribute to work that not only promotes accountability and transparency but also advances social justice. In this role, I aim to strengthen financial systems that support effective programme delivery and build the capacity of implementing partners in financial management.”
His work bridges the gap between strategic financial planning and social impact, ensuring that resources are not only managed efficiently but also distributed equitably.
As a Finance and Grants Officer, Peni oversees grantees' budgeting, financial reporting, and grant compliance to ensure transparent, efficient use of donor funds, supporting gender equality initiatives and empowering partners across the Pacific region.
Outside of the work he does for PWL at SPC, Peni also sees ways he can help his community by being a founding member of a group called the Cleaning Wizards, which supports high school dropouts, unemployed youths, and reformed criminals.
“It began with simple clean-up activities that not only improved our environment but also gave youth a sense of purpose, responsibility, and pride in their work,” he says.
“The initiative is driven by a vision to create opportunities for upskilling, employment, and personal growth, especially for those with limited resources.”
Peni adds that he also wants to contribute to making PWL at SPC a model for efficient, inclusive, and outcomes-driven development programming across the region.
“Ultimately, I see this as more than a finance role; it's a chance to support transformational change through sound, strategic financial stewardship.”
His job entails oversight of the budgeting, financial reporting, and grant compliance of grantees to ensure transparency, efficient use of donor funds, supporting gender equality initiatives and empowering partners across the Pacific region.
Peni’s current role is not his first with SPC, as he has worked with other projects in the Human Rights and Social Rights Division (HRSD) since 2022. He attributes his continuous growth and success to his father, who always dreamt of working for SPC:
“Although he passed away in 2020, his aspiration left a lasting impression on me. It instilled in me a deep respect for the role regional organisations such as SPC play in uplifting Pacific communities. Carrying his dream forward, I’m motivated to make a meaningful contribution through my work, honouring his legacy while forging my path in the development sector.”
Peni’s ambitions do not end within the financial realm. He hopes to become the Prime Minister of Fiji one day. “I am deeply committed to driving positive change in my country, with a focus on reducing poverty, decreasing unemployment, and creating sustainable economic opportunities for all Fijians,” he says.
He enjoys reading and socialising with friends and family, as these activities provide him with a sense of balance and relaxation, allowing him to unwind and recharge after a busy workday.
“Spending time with my wife helps me stay grounded, while reading expands my knowledge and provides valuable insights for both personal and professional growth. Socialising keeps me connected with others and reminds me of the importance of community and support networks.”
Peni advises that anyone who may be looking to join the development sector should lead with purpose and patience. He added that it is also important to be adaptable, collaborative, and grounded in humility.
“This field is driven by impact, not profit, so it requires a genuine commitment to improving lives often in complex and resource-limited environments. Be open to learning continuously, not just from formal training but also from the communities you serve.”
