Ten years ago, Greg Randin, a French-born anthropologist, arrived as a 19-year-old volunteer in Dawasamu, Tailevu. At that time, he was unfamiliar with the English language, had never experienced a cold shower, and felt out of place, likening his experience to being on another planet. Fast forward to today, Randin is a well-known presence on the streets of Suva and across social media, where he engages the community with his fluent Fijian, humorous anecdotes, and captivating charisma that draws people of all ages.
Randin has strategically used humor as a tool to initiate important discussions among young Fijians concerning education, cultural identity, and the increasing threats posed by drugs, particularly meth and ice. By embedding meaningful conversations within entertaining formats such as street quizzes and skits, he captures attention in a way that traditional messages often fail to do. “If it feels official, people swipe,” Randin explains, emphasizing that the humor encourages viewers to engage with the content before absorbing the serious issues at hand.
In an upcoming Sunday edition, Randin will delve into the methodology behind his humorous outreach, address the criticisms he has encountered, and share insights into how, in contemporary Fiji, attention might be considered the most valuable currency available. His innovative approach not only entertains but also educates, demonstrating the positive impact of laughter in facilitating serious dialogues within the community. Randin’s work reflects a hopeful outlook that through creativity and connection, meaningful change can occur in society.
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