Fiji – Where It All Began
The First Call to Serve and Empower the Pacific Nations
One Tribe Ministries’ story begins in Fiji in 2004 when Australian citizen Pete McCutchen felt called to share the gospel at Lautoka Prison.
Though initially, the prison’s answer was no, Pete and his wife Maree continued visiting Fiji to preach and help build churches.
In 2009, after 5 years of prayer, Pete reconnected with Fiji’s prison authorities, sharing his powerful personal transformation story.
The Officer In Charge (OC) picked him up from the airport the following week, leading to a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and access to 11 prisons.
“I was in prison and you came to visit me” — Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:36)
The Team Grows: Answering the Call Together
In 2012, Nicholas Brown and Ken Shepherd-Ashby, inspired by Pete’s story shared in Australia, joined Pete to assist with the growing efforts.
Together, with fellow volunteers, they helped establish and improve rehabilitation initiatives such as woodworking, welding, engine maintenance, beekeeping, baking, computer skills, and, more recently, literacy.
In 2013, Fiji Prime Minister invited Pete, Ken and Nick to attend the opening of the Suva Remand Centre.
During this event, the trio officially adopted the name One Tribe Ministries, marking a new chapter in their mission to serve and empower the Pacific nations.
At the Suva Remand Centre opening: OTM Director Ken Shepherd-Ashby (OTM), Officer in Charge, Suva Mens Prison Vito Koco, Chaplain Losana and OTM Directors Nicholas Brown and Pete McCutchen.
In 2015, at the Pacific Corrections Forum, Vika Verevalu of Fiji Corrections shared,
“One Tribe Ministries programs have played a direct role in reducing recidivism (reoffending) in Fiji”.
OTM’s impact inspired nations like PNG, Tonga, and the Solomons to engage in similar efforts.
Woman in Suva prison pose for picture Fiji newspaper story about the baking program
It has now been 14 years since the doors opened, and many teams have visited 11 prisons, teaching upskilling in many of them, as well as holding crusades in the prisons, churches, and villages.
Supporting Fiji’s Future
Fiji has many opportunities for One Tribe Ministries to expand its impact through improved upskilling programs, tools, and reach.
We invite you to become part of our ministry! Whether through a donation, volunteering your time, or offering prayers, every form of help is deeply appreciated.
Your involvement directly contributes to this life-changing work, fostering hope and long-term change in Fiji’s correctional facilities.
Together, we can make a lasting difference. Join us in this mission today!