Jieni Taoba has regarded the islands as her home, alternating between her Fijian village and the tranquil haven of Niue, which has unexpectedly become her permanent residence. Ms. Taoba reflects on her early career, stating, “I came here in 1979, on a one-year teaching secondment,” but this initial plan altered significantly.
What was meant to be a brief posting transformed into a lifelong commitment as the native of Lakeba, Lau, integrated into the Niuean community. Initially sent by the South Pacific Commission to replace a home economics teacher, Ms. Taoba quickly advanced to head the school’s department. She later progressed to become the principal of Niue High School, influencing the lives of countless students. “I’ve taught almost three-quarters of the island,” she jokes, noting the familiarity she enjoys with former students around Niue and even in New Zealand.
Ms. Taoba’s story between Fiji and Niue illustrates a personal journey of cultural adaptation, paralleling the experiences of many Pacific Islanders embracing multiple identities. After earning her degree from the University of the South Pacific in the 1970s, Ms. Taoba initiated her teaching career in Fiji before moving to Niue at the age of 22. Following nearly thirty years of teaching in Niue, she spent several years in the United States before returning in 2016 to enjoy her retirement.
Although her children reside in New Zealand, she expresses a deep connection to Niue, stating, “It’s a slower pace of life, and it’s peaceful.” While her roots remain in Fiji, she acknowledges that Niue has come to mean more than just a brief stay. “This place has grown on me,” she remarks, appreciating the visits from her three daughters and son, who have brought her eight grandchildren into the world.
When reflecting on what she misses most about Fiji, Ms. Taoba’s response is straightforward: “Family.” With the loss of her parents and other loved ones, her visits to Fiji have decreased. Now, she spends her days caring for her home and garden, indulging in sewing, and enjoying the natural beauty surrounding her. Although she actively engages with the local Fijian community, she leaves much of the organizational work to younger members of the diaspora.
“The Fiji community here has grown a lot since I first arrived,” she comments. As she observes the changes in both Niue and Fiji, Ms. Taoba clings to the values of resilience, hard work, and a connection to her Pacific heritage. Content with her peaceful existence on the island, she embraces her life at home in Niue.