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Since 2006, Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation has delivered free cardiac surgeries, pacemaker procedures, and specialist clinics to underprivileged communities across Fiji, bringing lifesaving care to those who need it most.
Each year, more than 70 volunteer surgeons, nurses, and technicians dedicate up to three weeks of their time, providing treatment that would otherwise be out of reach for many families. Your support makes every mission possible.
Our vision is a future where everyone in Fiji has access to life-saving heart care, regardless of cost or circumstance. We are committed to ensuring that quality cardiac treatment is available to those who need it most.
Through free treatment, local medical training, and long-term prevention programs, we work to reduce the burden of heart disease across Fiji, with a strong focus on preventing and treating rheumatic heart disease.
Every decision is guided by what is best for the patient and their family.
We believe life-saving care should not depend on income, location, or background.
We deliver treatment that meets international clinical standards.
We work alongside local health teams, governments, sponsors, and volunteers to achieve lasting impact.
We respect every donation, every volunteer hour, and every life entrusted to our care.
Dr. Parma Nand was a Fiji-born New Zealand cardiothoracic surgeon whose dedication to his homeland inspired a lasting legacy of medical service. With a strong belief that quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone, he founded the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation in 2006. His vision was to bring experienced cardiac specialists, advanced medical expertise, and life-saving treatment to patients in Fiji who otherwise had limited access to specialist cardiac care.
Under Dr. Nand’s leadership, the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation grew into an international volunteer medical initiative, bringing surgeons, cardiologists, nurses, technicians, and support teams from New Zealand and around the world to Fiji. Through its missions, the Foundation has provided heart surgeries, pacemaker procedures, cardiac investigations, and specialist care at no cost to patients. Today, the Foundation continues his vision of compassionate service, improving lives and giving families across Fiji renewed hope for a healthier future.
Hemant Patel is a former resident of Nausori who migrated to New Zealand in 1988. He holds degrees in law and commerce from the University of Auckland and is a senior partner at Patel Nand Legal. Hemant has extensive experience across legal practice and governance and has been actively involved in charitable organisations both locally and internationally. As Chair, he provides leadership, oversight, and long-term direction for the Foundation.
Dr Vinod Singh is a senior consultant physician in acute stroke and general medicine and a distinguished clinical teacher and senior lecturer at the University of Auckland. A Foundation trustee since 2006, he contributes extensive clinical expertise and academic leadership. His experience strengthens the Foundation’s commitment to high standards of care and evidence-based practice.
Ambedh Sharma has been a trustee of the Foundation since its inception in 2006. Company Director with over 40 years of experience in international trade, industrial and commercial projects A passionate supporter of charitable work for more than 20 years, he is committed to the Foundation's humanitarian mission. Beyond his responsibilities as a Trustee, he provides valuable support in international logistics for medical supplies and equipment for the mission.
Kiran Kumar is a tax consultant and has operated an accounting practice in Auckland for more than 30 years. He brings deep financial expertise and governance experience to the Foundation, ensuring strong financial oversight and accountability. Kiran is motivated by the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that supports underprivileged people in Fiji and strengthen the Foundation’s sustainability.
Jay Patel is a Trustee of the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation, bringing extensive business leadership and operational expertise to the organisation. He is a Director of the Ashabhai Group of Companies in Fiji and the Founding Director of Ashon Ventures NZ Ltd, where he has been based in New Zealand for over 30 years. With expertise in marketing, operations, and business development, he supports the Foundation through logistics and strategic partnerships, helping advance its mission to improve cardiac healthcare services in Fiji.
Aleem Shah began his healthcare career in Fiji after graduating from the Fiji School of Medicine in 1999 and worked in radiology at Colonial War Memorial Hospital and Lautoka Hospital. He later moved to New Zealand, contributing to several District Health Boards and spending over a decade in leadership within a major private cardiac facility. Aleem is currently Managing Director of Heart International Fiji and brings valuable clinical, operational, and regional insight to the Foundation’s work.
Dinesh Raniga is a chartered accountant and partner at GTA Chartered Accountants, with more than 36 years of professional experience. Born and educated in Fiji before completing his qualifications in New Zealand, he has held senior auditing roles including work with large national and international organisations. Dinesh is actively involved in community, cultural, and charitable initiatives and is passionate about improving opportunities for Fijians in need.
Jasmeen Mohammed brings extensive experience across the NGO, finance, and community sectors, working closely in both New Zealand and Fiji. She has a strong interest in preventative health and improving access to specialist cardiac care for vulnerable communities. Jasmeen is committed to supporting initiatives that reduce long-term health inequities and improve outcomes for families unable to afford treatment.
Divend Singh is a professional engineer with multidisciplinary experience across aviation, aerospace, automotive, medical device manufacturing, IT payments technology, and engineering consultancy. He has worked across New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, and Fiji and brings strong expertise in quality management systems, regulatory standards, and risk management. Divend is deeply committed to social responsibility and supporting initiatives that improve outcomes for underprivileged communities.
Maikash Ali is a Trustee of the Friends of Fiji Heart Foundation, bringing over three decades of senior banking and leadership experience across Fiji and New Zealand. He is Head of Corporate & Institutional Banking – Fiji & Pacific Markets at BSP, overseeing corporate banking across the Pacific. Previously, he spent over 30 years with ANZ in senior management roles. His extensive experience and strong connection to Fiji support the Foundation’s mission to improve cardiac healthcare services across the country.
Kirit Patel has been a dedicated and valued member for many years, generously giving his time, experience, and commitment in support of the Foundation and its charitable activities.
Since the Foundation's inception in 2006, he has served as a trustee until 2025 and made valuable contributions to its programme, activities, and community initiatives. Throughout his years of service, he worked closely with fellow members, volunteers, Partners & Supporters.
In recognition of his longstanding service, dedication, and contribution, he was awarded Life Membership of the Foundation.
While he is no longer involved in the same day-to-day capacity, his commitment to the Foundation continues. He remains supportive and continues to assist wherever he can, offering his experience and knowledge. The Foundation sincerely appreciates his many years of dedicated service and values his continued association and support.
We welcome individuals, businesses, healthcare professionals, community organisations and corporate sponsors to join us in making a lasting difference. Together, we can extend the reach and impact of life-changing medical care.
