Jieni Taoba considers the islands home, whether in her Fijian village or the tranquil surroundings of Niue, where she has unexpectedly settled permanently.
“I came here in 1979 on a one-year teaching assignment,” Ms. Taoba recalls from her early career. “I was meant to stay for just a year, but circumstances changed.”
What was intended as a brief contract turned into a lifelong commitment as the Lakeba, Lau native became an integral part of the Niuean community. Initially sent by the South Pacific Commission to take over a home economics teaching position, she quickly ascended to lead the school’s department.
Through dedication and hard work, she became the principal of Niue High School, influencing the lives of numerous students. “I’ve taught almost three-quarters of the island,” she laughs. “When I visit New Zealand or even just around the island, I see so many familiar faces, all former students.”
Her journey between Fiji and Niue illustrates not only her personal adaptation but also the shared experiences of many Pacific Islanders managing multiple cultural identities. After completing her studies at USP in the 70s, Ms. Taoba launched her teaching career in Fiji before moving to Niue at age 22.
After nearly 30 years in Niue, she spent time in the United States before returning in 2016 to embrace retirement. “I’ve had chances to relocate to New Zealand where my children live, but something keeps me here. It’s a slower pace of life, and it’s peaceful,” she shares.
Although her roots are in Fiji, she acknowledges that Niue has become much more than a temporary stop. “This place has grown on me. My children visit regularly, and it’s reassuring to know they have a home to return to,” she explains. Her children, three daughters and a son, reside in New Zealand along with her eight grandchildren.
When asked about what she misses most about Fiji, her response is straightforward: “Family.” With the loss of her parents and close relatives, she visits Fiji less frequently.
In her daily life, she cares for her home and garden, occasionally sews, and enjoys the natural beauty surrounding her. While she stays connected with the local Fijian community, she delegates much of the organizational efforts to younger members of the diaspora. “The Fijian community here has expanded significantly since I first arrived,” she notes.
Despite the changes she has observed in both Niue and Fiji, Ms. Taoba remains anchored in the values she learned growing up—resilience, hard work, and a strong connection to her Pacific roots. She is happy to continue her tranquil life on the island she now truly calls home.