Former flight attendant Vitila Vuniwaqa is a powerful example of resilience and determination. Despite suffering a stroke in 2010 that left her partially disabled, she has remained optimistic and focused on her goals. Hailing from Lovu, Gau, with familial ties to Taveuni, Vuniwaqa’s journey showcases her unwillingness to give up on life after her health setback.
Reflecting on her past, she noted, “I used to be a flight attendant with Air Pacific, now Fiji Airways. In 2010, I collapsed, and I had to learn to walk and talk again.” Through her struggles, she has explored various avenues for income, leveraging her knowledge of the tourism industry to build a new life.
Vuniwaqa currently runs a farming business in Sabeto where she engages in farming, hiking, and offering tours. Over the past seven years, she has created a variety of products, including lemongrass repellent oil, lemongrass lip balm, and natural face creams, targeting both local residents and tourists. Partnering with companies like Rosie Tours has enabled her to share her farming experience with visitors, enhancing their experience in Fiji.
In a message of hope and ambition, Vuniwaqa said, “I also have partners with Rosie Tours. Every day, a guest comes at 3:30, spends half an hour, and I get them to tour the bees and all the plants.” She is also eyeing future tourist projects, including a potential resort initiative in Gau, inspired by her visit to her maternal links.
Vuniwaqa encourages other women to follow their dreams. Her story resonates with a shared message from other resilient individuals in the Fijian tourism and agriculture sectors, such as Bulou Ateca Grace Qolouvaki Sugutanaivalu Bola, who also emphasizes the importance of striving for one’s ambitions despite challenges.
This positivity and resilience reflect a broader trend among Fijian women who are increasingly breaking barriers and building fulfilling lives against all odds. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder that perseverance and community support can lead to new opportunities and hope for the future.
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