Jieni Taoba has always considered the islands her home, be it in her familiar Fijian village or the peaceful surroundings of Niue, where she has now found a permanent residence. “I came here in 1979 on a one-year teaching secondment,” Ms. Taoba reflects on her early career adventures. “I was supposed to stay for just a year, but things changed.”
What started as a brief posting turned into a lifelong commitment as the Lakeba native from Lau became an integral part of the Niuean community. Initially sent by the South Pacific Commission to fill a vacancy for a home economics teacher, Ms. Taoba quickly rose to lead the school’s department.
Her career progressed significantly, eventually leading her to the role of principal at Niue High School, where she influenced the lives of hundreds of students. “I’ve taught almost three-quarters of the island,” she laughs, noting how she often sees former students when she travels to New Zealand or even around Niue.
Ms. Taoba’s experience represent the stories of many Pacific Islanders who embody dual cultural identities. After finishing her studies at the University of the South Pacific in the 1970s, she started her teaching career in Fiji at Laucala Bay Secondary and Nabua Secondary before moving to Niue at the age of 22.
Following nearly 30 years of dedication in Niue, she ventured to the United States for several years before returning to the island in 2016 to enjoy her retirement. “I’ve had offers to relocate to New Zealand where my children reside, but something keeps me here. It’s a slower pace of life, and it’s peaceful.”
While she cherishes her roots in Fiji, Niue has evolved into more than just a temporary residence. “This place has grown on me. My children visit regularly, and I appreciate knowing they have a home to come back to,” she shares. Her children, three daughters and a son, now live in New Zealand, along with her eight grandchildren.
When asked about her biggest longing for Fiji, she simply states, “Family.” With the loss of her parents and other loved ones, she finds herself visiting her homeland less frequently. Her days are now filled with maintaining her home and garden, sewing occasionally, and enjoying the beauty of her surroundings.
Although she remains engaged with the local Fijian community, she has passed much of the organizational responsibilities to the younger members of the Fijian diaspora. “The Fiji community here has grown a lot since I first arrived,” she observes.
Despite the changes she has experienced in both Niue and Fiji, Ms. Taoba stays true to the values instilled in her during her upbringing, including resilience, hard work, and a strong connection to her Pacific heritage. She finds contentment in her quiet life on the island she now proudly calls home.