Fiji Junior Vonu Under-17 full forward Makayla Sukhu is aspiring to follow her mother’s legacy in the sport of Australian Football League (AFL). Her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, was a member of the inaugural women’s Fiji Vonu team that competed in 2014, helping pave the way for future generations of female players.
Makayla expressed her admiration for her mother’s journey, stating, “AFL is a different sport, and my mum was the main reason why I took up this sport because she represented Fiji.” She has had a passion for AFL since childhood and recognizes the importance of teamwork and endurance in excelling at the game.
Describing her involvement in the sport, Sukhu shared, “AFL is a multi-skill sport; it’s quite challenging at first but once you grasp it, it becomes enjoyable.” She is determined to inspire her younger sister to join her in playing. Additionally, she envisions a promising future for AFL in Fiji and hopes to contribute to its growth.
Further demonstrating her athletic prowess, Sukhu recently earned the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title for Fiji during the 45th World Chess Olympiad held in Budapest, Hungary. She achieved this honor as the youngest member of the team, scoring 3.5 out of 7. Sukhu is also an active netball player for both Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club.
Balancing academics and sports can be challenging, but Sukhu finds that participating in sports provides a welcome distraction from her studies. She credits her success in AFL to her commitment and acknowledges the constant support from her parents, stating, “I’d also like to thank my parents for their endless support because they are always here in my corner.”
Makayla Sukhu exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination that can inspire young athletes everywhere. Her journey reflects the growth of women’s participation in sports in Fiji and highlights the supportive role of family in nurturing athletic talent. As she continues to pursue her dreams, it’s clear she aims not only to excel personally but also to elevate the profile of AFL within her community.
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