Jieni Taoba considers the islands of Fiji and Niue as home, where she has built a life rooted in the community. Initially arriving in Niue in 1979 for a one-year teaching assignment, she ended up staying much longer than expected. Taoba, originally from Lakeba in Lau, was sent by the South Pacific Commission to replace a home economics teacher and quickly became ingrained in the local educational system.
She progressed from teaching to leading Niue High School, influencing the lives of countless students during her nearly three-decade tenure there. “I’ve taught almost three-quarters of the island,” she remarked, noting the recognition she receives from former students during her travels.
Taoba’s journey mirrors the experiences of many Pacific Islanders balancing cultural identities. After completing her education at the University of the South Pacific in the 1970s, she began her teaching career in Fiji before moving to Niue at the age of 22. After spending time in the United States, she returned to Niue in 2016 to enjoy retirement.
Despite opportunities to relocate to New Zealand, where her children reside, Taoba feels a strong connection to Niue’s slower, peaceful lifestyle. While she maintains ties to her Fijian roots, with family still there, she finds solace in Niue, which has become more than just a temporary home for her.
Her family, including three daughters and a son living in New Zealand, regularly visits, enriching her life on the island. Although she misses her family in Fiji, particularly after the loss of her parents, she finds fulfillment in her daily routine of home and garden maintenance, sewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Niue.
Taoba stays engaged with the local Fijian community, allowing younger members to take on more organizational roles. She has witnessed significant changes over the years but remains steadfast in her values of resilience, hard work, and commitment to her Pacific heritage. Content in her life on the island, she cherishes her unique place within the broader community.