Studying abroad can present challenges, but with strong family and friend support, individuals can achieve remarkable things. Sainimere Boladuadua took a significant step years ago by relocating to Dunedin, New Zealand, driven by her ambition to become a doctor and serve her community.
Hailing from Somosomo in Cakaudrove and with maternal ties to Levuka, Yale in Kadavu, Sainimere is among 15 recipients of the prestigious Fulbright Science and Innovation Graduate Scholarship. This award facilitates postgraduate study or research for New Zealand graduates at institutions in the United States.
“From the 15 Fulbright graduate awardees for 2024/25, two are from the Pacific and both are Fijians,” Sainimere noted. The Pasifika population constitutes eight percent of New Zealand’s population, with Samoans making up approximately half of that demographic. She highlighted that Fijians form a smaller portion of the Pasifika community, stating that having two Fijians represented this year demonstrates their capability. “I have since been encouraging other Fijians to apply for it,” she added.
At 29, Sainimere holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Otago (2002), a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the Fiji School of Medicine (2006), and a Master of Public Health (Distinction) from the University of Otago (2011). She is a Fellow of the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine and is currently pursuing her PhD at Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, where she focuses on healthcare access, particularly studying childhood acute respiratory infections.
Her research combines both quantitative and qualitative methods conducted in Fiji and among Pacific families in New Zealand. Sainimere credits her parents and grandparents as role models who taught her the value of education. She expressed gratitude for having a family that prioritizes learning, noting, “Our parents were the first generation to go to university.”
She acknowledges the sacrifices made by her parents’ generation in pursuing education, emphasizing the importance of their quest for knowledge. “For my generation, we stand on their shoulders and build upon what they have established for us,” she said.
Sainimere aspires to enhance her knowledge and experience in indigenous health and health systems research. Her message for others is to “dream big” and “don’t limit yourself.”
“This award has attracted attention… so many have reached out to express their pride and how inspiring they find this,” she stated. She realized the importance of sharing such stories and believes Fijians often underestimate their potential in global contexts.
Sainimere attributes this mindset to lingering effects of colonialism, asserting that Fijians excel in international environments. “When we go overseas for studies or work, we do very well. We hold our own,” she affirmed, emphasizing the need to recognize and embrace this truth. “Seeing our people succeed on national and international stages exemplifies this. At the core, our faith plays a crucial role; I believe each of us has a unique vision and purpose provided by God.”