The holiday season is often synonymous with family, warmth, and celebration, and for 21-year-old Mereani Matakibau, this year’s festivities hold a unique significance. Born and raised in England, Mereani is embracing her dream of spending the holidays in her ancestral home of Fiji, a heartfelt birthday gift that she had long hoped for.
Originally from Makadru Village in Matuku, Lau, Mereani recently celebrated her 21st birthday and chose to forgo a typical party or gifts. Instead, she asked her parents for the opportunity to reconnect with her roots by spending the holidays in her village with family. Her journey began last week, and on Monday, she will travel by boat with her father to experience the essence of island life during this festive period.
Mereani expressed her excitement about the trip, highlighting the chance to reconnect with her paternal grandparents, whom she last saw as a baby. This visit represents more than just a holiday; it’s a moment to strengthen family ties and rediscover her heritage. As the middle child among three siblings, this marks her first solo journey to Fiji, making it a significant milestone in her life.
Previously, Mereani had visited Fiji multiple times, but this trip holds special importance as it is her eighth visit, and the first one without her brothers by her side. Each visit deepens her connection to her homeland and identity, making her experiences even more rewarding. The joy of reuniting with relatives has already begun to create memories she will cherish forever.
Enthusiastically anticipating her time in Lau, Mereani is eager to immerse herself in village life, sharing meals, traditions, and stories with her extended family during what she describes as a transformative journey of self-discovery.
As she reflects on the contrast between her life in England during the winter holidays and the tropical festive atmosphere in Fiji, she appreciates the warmth and sunshine that envelop her family celebrations.
Mereani is grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to spending meaningful time with her cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and grandparents. She expresses her excitement and gratitude, wishing everyone a happy holiday season and extending her warmest greetings for a Merry Christmas.
Ultimately, this holiday season represents not just a celebration, but a heartfelt homecoming and a cherished dream come true.
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