Jieni Taoba considers the islands of Fiji and Niue her true home, having cultivated deep roots in Niue since her initial arrival in 1979. Initially sent on a one-year teaching assignment, she ended up becoming an integral part of the Niuean community. Starting out as a replacement for a home economics teacher, Ms. Taoba ascended to the position of principal at Niue High School, influencing the lives of countless students over the years.
Having graduated from the University of the South Pacific in the 1970s, Ms. Taoba began her teaching career in Fiji before relocating to Niue at the age of 22. After nearly three decades of service in Niue, she spent some time in the United States but returned to Niue in 2016 to enjoy her retirement.
Despite her children living in New Zealand, Ms. Taoba has chosen to remain in Niue, appreciating its tranquility and slower pace of life. Although her heart is still tied to Fiji, she acknowledges that Niue has become her permanent home, particularly as her children visit regularly, providing her with a sense of connection.
Reflecting on what she misses most about Fiji, she simply states, “Family.” With the loss of her parents and close relatives, her trips back home have become infrequent. Instead, she enjoys maintaining her home and garden, sewing occasionally, and soaking in the island’s natural beauty.
Ms. Taoba continues to participate in local Fijian community activities, though she has delegated much of the organizational efforts to younger members of the diaspora. She observes that the Fijian community in Niue has grown significantly since her arrival.
Throughout the changes she has experienced in both Niue and Fiji, Ms. Taoba remains steadfast in the values of resilience, hard work, and a strong connection to her Pacific identity. She is at peace with her life on the island she now proudly calls home.