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 refuge.
“I arrived here in 1979 on a one-year teaching secondment,” Ms. Taoba recalls, reflecting on the early stages of her career. “I intended to stay for just a year, but circumstances changed.”
What was meant to be a short stint transformed into a lifelong commitment, as the Lakeba native from Lau became deeply integrated into the Niue community. Initially sent by the South Pacific Commission to take over as a home economics teacher, Ms. Taoba quickly ascended to manage the school’s department.
Throughout the years, she continued to climb the ranks, ultimately becoming the principal of Niue High School, where she made a significant impact on the lives of countless students. “I’ve taught nearly three-quarters of the island,” she says with a chuckle. “Whenever I visit New Zealand or even just travel around Niue, I encounter so many familiar faces—my former students.”
Ms. Taoba’s story of transitioning from Fiji to Niue illustrates not only her personal journey but also the collective experiences of numerous Pacific Islanders navigating different cultural identities. After completing her studies at the University of the South Pacific in the 1970s, she spent her early years in Fiji, beginning her teaching career at Laucala Bay Secondary and Nabua Secondary before moving to Niue at the age of 22.
After nearly 30 years in Niue, she spent some time in the United States before returning to Niue in 2016 for her retirement. “I’ve had chances to relocate to New Zealand where my children reside, but there’s something that keeps me here. The pace of life is slower, and it’s peaceful.”
Although her roots remain in Fiji, she acknowledges that Niue has become much more than just a temporary stop. “This place has grown on me. My children visit often, and it comforts me to know they have a home to return to.” Her three daughters and a son now live 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 other close relatives, she finds herself less inclined to return to her home country, venturing back only occasionally.
Ms. Taoba spends her days taking care of her home and garden, sewing occasionally, and enjoying the natural beauty surrounding her. She remains connected to the local Fijian community but has entrusted much of the organizational work to younger members of the diaspora. “The Fiji community here has expanded significantly since my arrival,” she notes.
Despite witnessing significant changes in both Niue and Fiji, Ms. Taoba stays true to the values she was raised with—resilience, hard work, and a profound connection to her Pacific roots. She is content to continue her quiet life on the island she now calls home.