Introduction
People often assume I’m Indian based on my appearance. However, my identity is a blend of diverse cultures and traditions. My mother is Indo-Fijian, and my father is iTaukei from Somosomo, Taveuni. I am also Hindu, which adds another layer to my rich heritage. I take pride in every part of my background because it has shaped me into the person I am today.
My journey has been filled with lessons from both cultures, personal struggles, and moments of growth. From learning the values of respect and tradition to facing heartbreak and overcoming challenges in my career, every experience has made me stronger. This is my story—a story of culture, resilience, and authenticity.
Growing Up Between Two Cultures
Being raised in a multicultural household, I had the privilege of experiencing the best of two worlds. My Indo-Fijian roots blessed me with flavorful cuisine, a rich language, and deep-rooted traditions that connect generations. The vibrant festivals, the aroma of spices in home-cooked meals, and the wisdom passed down through stories created a strong foundation in my life.
On the other hand, my iTaukei heritage taught me the importance of community, respect, and the deep spiritual connection to the land and ocean. I learned about the values of sharing, togetherness, and the significance of traditional customs. Whether it was participating in cultural ceremonies or understanding the responsibilities that come with my lineage, both sides of my heritage helped shape my identity.
Life’s Unpredictability and Valuable Lessons
One thing life has taught me is that nothing is guaranteed. Change is constant, and people come and go. This realization has made me cherish relationships and moments even more. I never take anyone or anything for granted.
Through hardships, misunderstandings, and difficult times, I have learned to prioritize communication. Even when it’s tough, I believe in working things out with people. Holding grudges or letting miscommunication build walls doesn’t align with who I am. Instead, I try to seek understanding, knowing that everyone has their own struggles and perspectives.
Heartbreak, Mistakes, and Growth
Like many others, I have faced heartbreak, made mistakes, and struggled with my emotions. At times, my deep care for people has been misunderstood. Some have even called me a “psycho” for caring too much, but I refuse to let such labels define me.
To me, caring deeply is a strength, not a weakness. It means having the capacity to understand, to feel, and to connect with others on a profound level. Yes, it has led to moments of pain, but it has also allowed me to form genuine connections and learn valuable life lessons. Every mistake I’ve made has taught me something important, helping me grow into a better version of myself.
Family: My Pillar of Strength
Family has always been at the core of my life. Even when I was rebellious, even when I made choices that weren’t the best, my love and commitment to my family never wavered.
Life has a way of humbling us. Over time, I learned to take responsibility for my actions, to learn from my mistakes, and to use those experiences to grow stronger. Now, I see family not just as people connected by blood but as a support system that shapes and guides us.
Lessons From My Career
Throughout my professional journey, I’ve had the opportunity to work with organizations like NRL, BSP Life, and in the airline industry. Each role has taught me valuable lessons about people, challenges, and personal growth.
Working in these industries, I developed strong communication skills and learned how to navigate different personalities and situations. Whether it was handling customer concerns, managing tasks under pressure, or finding ways to connect with people from different backgrounds, my experiences shaped me into a confident and adaptable individual.
Authenticity, Resilience, and Moving Forward
At my core, I am someone who listens, who cares, and who values strong relationships. I believe in showing up for people, in being present, and in putting in the effort to maintain meaningful connections.
Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from hardships—it’s about learning, adapting, and staying true to yourself through it all. No matter what life throws my way, I remain committed to authenticity. I am proud of who I am, where I come from, and the person I continue to become.
Conclusion
Life is a journey of self-discovery, and every experience—good or bad—plays a role in shaping who we are. My mixed heritage, my personal struggles, and my professional experiences have all contributed to my growth.
At the end of the day, what matters most is how we treat people, how we learn from our experiences, and how we choose to move forward. I embrace every part of my identity, every lesson I’ve learned, and every challenge I’ve overcome. This is me—authentic, resilient, and always growing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does being Indo-Fijian and iTaukei mean to you?
Being both Indo-Fijian and iTaukei means carrying the traditions, values, and wisdom of two rich cultures. It has given me a unique perspective on life and a deep appreciation for diversity.
2. How do you handle misunderstandings with people?
I prioritize communication and understanding. I believe in resolving issues through honest conversations rather than letting them create distance.
3. How do you stay resilient in tough times?
Resilience comes from self-awareness, learning from past experiences, and surrounding myself with supportive people. Challenges are opportunities for growth.
4. What lessons have your career experiences taught you?
My career has taught me the importance of adaptability, communication, and building relationships. Every role has contributed to my personal and professional growth.
5. What advice would you give to someone embracing their mixed heritage?
Embrace every part of your identity with pride. Your heritage is a strength that makes you unique. Learn from both sides, celebrate your culture, and be proud of who you are.
