Kelera Oli, a proud descendant of Solomon Islanders, was deeply moved during a recent event in Suva, where she came across a photograph of her late father at a National Archives booth. This emotional encounter was part of a two-day commemoration marking 160 years since the arrival of Melanesian laborers in Fiji. The image evoked cherished memories of her father, Luke Oli, who was a passionate schoolteacher dedicated to fostering education within the Melanesian community during the late 1900s, a time when that community faced significant colonial injustices.
Luke Oli committed his life to teaching at St Paul’s Primary School in Naviavia and St John’s College, an institution established specifically for Melanesian students. Throughout their journey, the family moved often, finally settling in Suva. Ms. Oli reflects on her childhood experiences, noting the discrimination she faced due to her Solomon Islander heritage. Upon arriving in Suva, her father enrolled her in Adi Cakobau School, an all-girls’ boarding institution, where she found it difficult to fit in due to feelings of being seen as an outsider.
Despite the challenges of growing up in a society that often classified her as different from the iTaukei community, Ms. Oli holds onto her father’s belief in the transformative power of education. The photo of her father brought her a renewed sense of hope and grounding. “Although he’s no longer with us, his values and teachings shaped who I am today,” she expressed with gratitude.
During the 160th-anniversary event, Ms. Oli felt a strong connection to her roots and a renewed sense of belonging as the Melanesian community was celebrated.
The arrival of the last group of Solomon Islanders in Fiji occurred in 1911. Although many returned home after their contracts, others stayed and established vibrant communities in Levuka and Suva. Starting from the 1880s, these communities faced challenges, including marginalization and a lack of secure land tenure, yet they remain an integral part of Fiji’s history. Unlike in Australia, where many Solomon Islanders were deported, those in Fiji were able to remain, contributing significantly to the country’s cultural tapestry.
Ms. Oli and her fellow descendants embody the resilience and lasting impact of the Solomon Islander heritage in Fiji, carrying forward the legacy of their ancestors with pride. This story is one of hope and the power of education to overcome adversity, as families honor their legacies and work towards a more inclusive future.
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