Kelera Oli, a proud descendant of Solomon Islanders, was deeply moved on Thursday when she came across a photograph of her late father at a National Archives booth in Suva. This poignant moment was part of a two-day event commemorating the 160th anniversary of the arrival of Melanesian laborers in Fiji. The photograph evoked strong memories for Ms. Oli, reminding her of her father’s lasting impact.
Her father, Luke Oli, dedicated his life to education as a schoolteacher in the late 1900s, a time marked by the colonial injustices faced by Fiji’s Melanesian community. He spent his career teaching at St. Paul’s Primary School in Naviavia, Wailevu West Cakaudrove, and at St. John’s College, an institution created for Melanesian students.
The family’s journey involved frequent moves, eventually landing in Suva. Ms. Oli reflected on her childhood experiences of discrimination, particularly from those who regarded her Solomon Islander heritage as “other.” When her family relocated to Suva, her father, an alumnus of Queen Victoria School, chose to enroll her in Adi Cakobau School, an all-girls’ boarding school. Adapting to this new setting proved difficult for her.
With candid honesty, Ms. Oli recounted, “With my Solomon Islands heritage, I was often seen as an outsider. There were times I faced discrimination from certain groups, which could be hurtful, but I had to cope with it. We were often classified as different from the iTaukei community.”
Despite these challenges, Ms. Oli cherishes her father’s emphasis on education as a pathway to success. “Seeing my father’s image brought back hope and a sense of restoration,” she expressed. “Although he’s no longer with us, his values and teachings shaped who I am today. I’m in awe of the great things he taught me and my siblings.”
As she participated in the 160th-anniversary event, Ms. Oli felt a profound connection to her heritage, stating, “As we commemorate the Melanesian community’s arrival, I felt a renewed sense of belonging.”
The article also highlights the historical context of Solomon Islanders in Fiji. The last group arrived in 1911, and while many returned home after completing their contracted terms, others chose to stay, establishing communities particularly in Levuka and Suva. Unlike their counterparts in Australia, who faced deportation, those in Fiji remained, albeit facing significant marginalization.
The legacy of Solomon Islanders continues, with their descendants, such as Ms. Oli, embodying their resilience and the significant impact their ancestors made in Fiji. This dedication to preserving their heritage and history not only fosters a sense of pride but also promotes a deeper understanding of cultural identity among future generations.
In summary, Kelera Oli’s experience at the commemorative event underscores the importance of legacy, the impact of education, and the significance of cultural belonging. As individuals like Ms. Oli honor their ancestors, they contribute to a richer and more inclusive narrative in Fiji’s history.
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