Miriama Waruvono Taletawa has been honored as Fiji’s Sportswoman of the Year for 2024, marking an impressive milestone in her weightlifting career. At just 20 years old, Taletawa attributes her success to her coach, Henry Elder, whose encouragement was pivotal in her journey to the sport. Her mother initially recognized her talent by nominating her in 2020, and since then, Taletawa has continued to shine both locally and internationally.
Surprised yet proud to win this esteemed award for the second year in a row, Taletawa emphasized the importance of her coach’s constant support. “Coach Elder always motivated me and the team. Even when we drop weights, he is there encouraging us,” she said. Over the past year, despite facing challenges in her lifts, Taletawa has achieved significant successes, including medals at the Oceania Weightlifting competition and a silver medal in the junior category at the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Suva.
In addition to her athletic endeavors, Taletawa is a dedicated student at the University of the South Pacific, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science with a focus on Chemistry and Biology. Maintaining a rigorous training schedule, she balances her time between three training sessions a week and her academic responsibilities, demonstrating her commitment to excelling both in the classroom and on the weightlifting platform.
Taletawa is also preparing for her next competition in Australia scheduled for the end of April, showing her dedication to continuous improvement in her sport. Her achievements not only highlight her individual talent but also reflect the strong support system within Fiji’s sports community. This recognition serves as an inspiration for young athletes, illustrating that with determination, hard work, and effective mentorship, remarkable accomplishments are possible. The future indeed looks promising for both Taletawa and the weightlifting scene in Fiji.
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