FijiFirst’s Naivalurua recalls humble beginnings in Basagau , Toorak
He attended the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst where he was the best overseas cadet. He graduated from the Australian Defence College
FijiFirst provisional candidate, Ioane Naivalurua, is not ashamed to share the story of his humble beginnings.
He hopes it will inspire and motivate youths to keep striving for greatness and never give up.
Many know him for his success but not those struggles and tears he had to overcome to reach where he is today.
“There are many paths to success, and for me, my journey to success was not easy. However, despite the obstacles I faced, I did not give up,” Mr Naivalurua said.
“With faith and hard work as a foundation, I overcame all obstacles and reached heights that one never thought imaginable.
“Most of you can relate to my story, and I would like to challenge everyone. You have the power to change your future.
“I believe story telling is an important part of our life. The ability to live in Suva with my relatives and just depend on them far away from my home in Taveuni,” he said.
“I was able to learn how to survive and look after myself, provide for my needs and look for opportunities at an early age. This I did when I was in class three right up to class eight living in Toorak.
“I attended Marist Brothers Primary School from Class 2 to Class 8 and on that particular part of my journey I was able achieve the things I wanted to do but through the kindness and love of my uncle and aunty together with their children living under one very small roof at the Housing Authority three-storey building in Bagasau, Toorak.”
Mr Naivalurua said it was important to always have faith.
“I’ve learned a lot of things, even how to sell bottles, collect copper and walk miles and miles to sell some of these things just to get an apple or something to eat,” he said.
“But the important part of my early life was the ability to learn the importance of faith- to believe in my God which I learned as early as that and this is an important pillar in my life which has guided me throughout from those days to where I am today.
“Faith guides my conscience, guides my life, guides me, directs me in the decisions that I make and also helps me bring up a wonderful family at this point of my life.”
Career
Mr Naivalurua reached the rank of Major General (Retired) in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
He served as a diplomat in 2015 becoming Fiji’s Ambassador to China. He has vast experience as a career military officer who has served in peacekeeping duties overseas with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
He attended the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst where he received the best overseas cadet, and later graduated from the Australian Defence College.
He has held senior roles with the disciplined forces previously as the Commissioner for Fiji Corrections Services, and Fiji’s Police Commissioner.
In 2019 Mr Naivalurua retired from his role as the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and is known for his professionalism and integrity.