Don’t forget your roots
AISEA Volavola, a farmer from Sinuvaca Village on Koro Island, has woven a remarkable life story deeply rooted in Fijian culture and education.
Born and raised on Koro, the 33-year-old completed primary education on the island before embarking on a journey that would eventually lead him to become a passionate advocate for preserving and sharing the rich traditions of his people.
In 2006, he moved to Suva to pursue his high school education, marking the beginning of a transformative period in his life.
He enrolled at Vunimono High School where he dedicated himself to academic excellence from 2006 to 2008.
Seeking further growth, he moved to Queen Victoria School for Form 6 studies in 2009.
The unique environment at QVS not only shaped his academic pursuits, but also instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility to pass on the cultural heritage of the i-Taukei people.
“When I went to QVS, I was inspired by how the school prioritised the practice of i-Taukei traditional culture, so together with my upbringing in the village, it motivated me to start this movement so that the youths can learn from it,” Mr Volavola said.
A pivotal moment in his educational journey came in 2010 when he enrolled at USP.
His commitment and dedication led to the successful completion of a Bachelor of Science degree, setting the stage for a future that merged traditional values with modern knowledge.
Inspired by his cultural upbringing and the teachings at QVS, Mr Volavola felt a strong calling to share the essence of i-Taukei culture and tradition with those youths unfamiliar with its depth and significance.
“Planting seeds in the youth’s minds that will grow roots and eventually bear fruit in their lives is my main focus,” Mr Volavola said.
Driven by this passion, he created a social media account in 2016 called Na i Takitaki lailai, which now has a major following from people of all walks of life wanting to learn from him.
He has also authored a series of beginner’s guidebooks, offering insights into essential aspects of Fijian ceremonies, such as the intricate art of i tatau and the meaningful practice of reguregu.
These beginners’ guidebooks, available in four volumes, have become a valuable resource for individuals eager to learn and appreciate the intricacies of Fijian traditions. At $6 per copy, Mr Volavola’s publications not only serve as educational tools but also contribute to his livelihood.
His publications include;
■ Volume 1-3 —A compilation of short stories to motivate youth and the children of tomorrow. (no longer available for sale);
■ Volume 4 — Sevusevu (mandatory to be done at all traditional i-Taukei ceremonies) I tatau (farewell ceremony.);
■ Volume 5 — Veisiko (vulagi, tauvimate);
■ Volume 6 — Sema Veiwekani (forging of new ties between two families after a marriage);
■ Vakaraitaki (when two people are in a relationship and are planning to show the family);
■ Veiduguci (when the man’s family approaches his partner’s family to ask for her hand in marriage);
■ Bulubulu (when the man’s family asks for forgiveness from his partner’s family if the woman is pregnant before marriage); ■ Vakaraitaki ni bukete (when the man’s family goes to show the woman’s family that she is pregnant); and
■ Volume 7 — reguregu (done when there is a death). Mr Volavola’s journey was not solely shaped by his academic pursuits; his family played a central role in providing support and guidance.
“I am where I am and what I am today because someone loved and cared for me,” he said. “Someone gave me the right counsel, and it built a strong foundation for me to stand on.” The influence of his stepfather, hailing from Nakorovatu in Naitasiri, proved to be a guiding force during his formative years.
This familial support system laid the foundation for his resilience and determination to pursue his goals, especially in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage that defines the Fijian way of life.
“I want to acknowledge the people of Nakorovatu in Naitasiri for guiding me, especially my stepfather for his counselling and support.”
In addition to the income generated through book sales, Mr Volavola engages in consultations with families, sharing his expertise on traditional Fijian ceremonies. This dual approach not only sustains him financially but also allows him to actively contribute to the continuation of iTaukei culture.
Aisea Volavola’s story is one of cultural preservation, education, and entrepreneurship.
His dedication to bridging the gap between tradition and modernity reflects a commitment to ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of Fijian heritage endures for generations to come.
As a farmer, author and cultural ambassador, he stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have in preserving and celebrating their cultural identity.
Mr Volavola can be contacted through his FB page - Na i Takitaki lailai
I am where I am and what I am today because someone loved and cared for me... Someone gave me the right counsel, and it built a strong foundation for me to stand on
– Aisea Volavola