Jieni Taoba has always considered the islands her home, whether in her Fijian village or the tranquil surroundings of Niue, which has unexpectedly become her permanent sanctuary.
Taoba recalls her journey beginning in 1979 when she arrived on a one-year teaching assignment. “I was supposed to stay for just a year, but things changed,” she reflects. That initial year turned into a lifelong commitment as she became increasingly ingrained in the Niuean community.
Initially sent by the South Pacific Commission to fill the role of a home economics teacher, she quickly ascended to lead the school’s department and eventually became the principal of Niue High School, influencing the lives of countless students. “I’ve taught almost three-quarters of the island,” she laughs, noting the many familiar faces she encounters in New Zealand and around the island.
Taoba’s experiences transition between Fiji and Niue encompass not just her personal journey but also mirror the shared experiences of many Pacific Islanders navigating multiple cultural identities. After graduating from the University of the South Pacific in the 70s, she embarked on her teaching career in Fiji before moving to Niue at the age of 22.
After nearly 30 years in Niue, she lived in the United States for a few years before returning in 2016 for retirement. Though she considered relocating to New Zealand where her children reside, she feels drawn to the slower, peaceful lifestyle that Niue offers. “This place has grown on me,” she shares, noting the importance of providing a home for her children when they visit.
Taoba’s family, including her three daughters and a son, now live in New Zealand along with her eight grandchildren. When asked what she misses most about Fiji, her answer is straightforward: “Family.” Following the loss of her parents and other relatives, her visits back to Fiji have become less frequent.
Now, she enjoys her days maintaining her home and garden, sewing occasionally, and soaking in the island’s natural beauty. While she remains connected with the local Fijian community, she has passed much of the organizational responsibilities to the younger members of the diaspora. “The Fiji community here has grown a lot since I first arrived,” she notes.
Through the changes she’s witnessed in both Niue and Fiji, Taoba holds strong to the values she was raised with—resilience, hard work, and a profound connection to her Pacific heritage. She is content to continue her quiet life on the island she now calls home.