Marta Tooma grew up in an environment heavily influenced by her parents, who were medical missionaries working in underprivileged communities in the Amazon rainforest. This upbringing allowed her to witness firsthand the challenges faced by nations suffering from inadequate healthcare and persistent diseases. She also came to appreciate the beauty of nature, the richness of diverse cultures, and the fulfillment of aiding those in need.
Today, Tooma serves as the co-founder and dental director of The Mission at Natuvu Creek, a clinic located in Buca Bay, Cakaudrove. The clinic is established in honor of her parents’ sacrifices and inspired by her own children. A dentist since 1997, Tooma has made numerous trips to Fiji, where she shared her enriching journey and future aspirations.
Recalling her children’s upbringing in a prosperous California city, Tooma expressed concern about their exposure to luxury and privilege. She sought opportunities to preserve their innocence, ultimately leading her to receive a rare call for volunteer work in Fiji, a trip that would alter her life forever.
Tooma brought her children and sister (a nurse) along for the adventure. Upon arriving at Savusavu Airport on a rainy day, they found themselves without the promised transportation. Despite the challenges—including lack of paved roads and poor conditions—the family made their way to Buca Bay.
The initial mission, operating under the Dream Machine Foundation, was unorganized, with promised equipment failing to arrive. Recognizing the need for proper dental facilities, Tooma returned with portable dental equipment and hygiene protocols, involving her children in every task, from sterilizing instruments to overcoming health challenges.
After facing many obstacles, Tooma and her husband, Dr. Thomas Tooma, a skilled eye surgeon, acquired 750 acres of land to build a fully-equipped clinic, The Mission at Natuvu Creek, in 2006. Their commitment to serve the Fijian community deeply motivates their work.
A heartfelt incident early in her mission experience profoundly impacted Tooma. After losing her luggage on a flight, local villagers provided her their finest clothing despite her intentions of giving them her old clothes. This moment taught her a valuable lesson about generosity and service, guiding her philosophy to offer her best as a dentist to the people of Fiji.
The Mission at Natuvu Creek has significantly transformed lives with the support of medical and dental volunteers from around the globe. Offering various services, including dental care and eye surgeries, the clinic caters to over 10,000 local patients annually.
During her recent visit to Fiji, the mission held a series of free clinics, including an eye and dental clinic, reuniting with locals and emphasizing the mission’s dual focus on medical care and spiritual healing.
Tooma articulated that the mission is not a resort but a place that fosters health alongside unique cultural experiences. With a commitment to community care and support for one another, she highlights the distinctive nature of Fijian society.
The mission also collaborates with students from Pepperdine University who volunteer annually. Funded by the Tooma Family Foundation, the clinic embodies Tooma’s vision: to provide essential medical care while also imparting peace and healing to all who visit.