Salote Malani, a dedicated daughter of Ono-i-Lau, credits her upbringing and her mother’s teaching career for instilling in her a profound sense of empathy and a desire to uplift her community. Growing up as the eldest of seven children, her journey into leadership began early, shaping her outlook on service and education. After studying locally, she pursued further education overseas, but her commitment to Fiji remained steadfast.
“I have always been passionate about coming home and serving,” she states, a sentiment that propelled her to return and embark on a career in education. Over the years, Salote has contributed at every level, from early childhood education to tertiary institutions, both locally and internationally. However, in 2020, she chose to pivot away from the education sector to focus on community work, pursuing a political path that emphasizes inclusivity.
Salote’s political ambitions are rooted in her strong belief that the current decision-making processes lack adequate representation of gender and youth voices. “There’s a significant gap in inclusivity regarding gender and intergenerational representation,” she notes, articulating her vision for a political party that advocates for balanced representation—one-third men, one-third women, and one-third youth—ensuring that all perspectives are integrated into national dialogue.
She is particularly concerned about pressing issues like the high cost of living, inadequate government services, and the necessity of effective social services that meet the needs of struggling families. Salote envisions a collaborative effort between the government and civil society organizations (CSOs) to develop policies that genuinely reflect the realities of Fijians’ lives.
Addressing the “big shift” in governmental priorities away from domestic issues, Salote criticizes the focus on international matters at the expense of local concerns, such as drug abuse and rising crime rates. Her party’s slogan, “Let Fiji Heal and Grow,” embodies her commitment to moving beyond the trauma of past military coups and fostering a future focused on healing and sustainable growth.
If elected, her immediate goal will be reducing unnecessary government expenditures, which includes revisiting the salaries of top officials to reflect the economic realities that everyday Fijians face. Salote insists that cutting financial excesses will free resources to better serve the public.
A staunch advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment, Salote also emphasizes that the absence of diverse voices in political leadership leads to ineffective policies. Despite facing challenges stemming from a toxic political culture, she remains committed to bringing balance to national leadership. “Women are not here to replace men but to complement them,” she says, demonstrating her resolve to inspire and uplift voices that have been marginalized.
In her message to voters, Salote assures them of her vision, stating, “I am here to look out for what truly matters to the hearts of people.” She expresses determination to prioritize community needs over personal gain, advocating for meaningful changes to enhance the quality of life for all Fijians.
Salote’s journey reflects the resilience and strength of those striving for empowerment in Fiji, showing that with determination and a clear vision, positive changes are possible. Her commitment to addressing societal challenges can inspire others and highlight the potential for a thriving, inclusive democratic environment in Fiji’s future.
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