Studying abroad can be a challenging experience, but with the support of family and friends, remarkable achievements are possible. Sainimere Boladuadua took a courageous step years ago by relocating to Dunedin, New Zealand, with the goal of becoming a doctor and serving her community.
Hailing from Somosomo in Cakaudrove and having maternal roots in Levuka, Yale in Kadavu, Sainimere is one of 15 recipients of the prestigious Fulbright Science and Innovation Graduate Scholarship for 2024/25. This award allows New Zealand graduate students to pursue postgraduate studies or research at institutions in the United States.
Sainimere noted that among the 15 Fulbright awardees this year, two representatives were from the Pacific, both being Fijians. She highlighted that while the Pasifika population comprises around eight percent of New Zealand’s total population, a significant portion are Samoans, with Fijians making up a smaller fraction. She expressed her pride in the achievement of her fellow Fijian awardee and has since been encouraging other Fijians to apply for similar opportunities.
Aged 29, Sainimere graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) in 2002. She also obtained a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the Fiji School of Medicine in 2006 and a Master of Public Health with Distinction from the University of Otago in 2011. Currently, she is pursuing her PhD at Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, focusing on healthcare access, particularly related to childhood acute respiratory infections.
Her research incorporates both quantitative and qualitative methods, examining studies in Fiji and involving Pacific families in New Zealand. Sainimere credits her parents and grandparents as her role models for emphasizing the importance of education. She feels fortunate to belong to a family that values learning, as her parents were the first in their generation to attend university.
She reflects on her family’s journey, acknowledging the sacrifices made for education and believes her generation is building upon the groundwork laid by their parents. Sainimere aspires to expand her expertise in indigenous health and health systems research.
Her message for achieving personal potential is to “dream big” and not to impose limits on oneself. The recognition from the Fulbright award has resonated with many, prompting numerous individuals to express their pride and find inspiration in her story. She acknowledges the impact of her achievement and emphasizes the importance of shared narratives.
Sainimere also addresses the prevalent mindset among Fijians that they face limitations in accessing global opportunities. She attributes this outlook to residual colonial influences. However, she believes that Fijians excel when pursuing studies or work abroad and encourages a shift in mindset to recognize and embrace their capabilities in international and national arenas.
She concludes by emphasizing her faith, believing that everyone has a unique purpose and vision in life.