Eroni Qiolevu’s life took an unexpected turn in 1985 when he collected his passport from the immigration office in Suva. Although he had applied for the document as a ship greaser, the passport mistakenly identified him as an “engineer.” Despite informing the official of the error, he was told to “just take it,” a decision that burdened him for 14 years as he sought to validate the title on his passport.
Now at 88 years old, Qiolevu is a retired engineer with three decades of experience, including 15 years at sea and another 15 years working on oil rigs. This journey primarily involved working with the Norwegian maritime company Wilh Wilhelmsen, allowing him to travel the globe extensively.
Reflecting on his early education at Ratu Kadavulevu School from 1949 to 1953, he credits the discipline, punctuality, and respect instilled in him during those formative years for shaping his professional conduct. “The routines we followed helped prepare me for the future, teaching me the significance of being on time and showing respect to others,” he said.
His maritime career began on land, assisting a surveyor named Mr. Singh in Suva for two years before venturing into the maritime world. His first major position involved working on a ship traveling around Fiji and Rotuma, and the lessons from his education helped him thrive in that environment.
In 1962, Qiolevu’s career made a significant leap when he encountered a Norwegian ship in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Despite lacking formal credentials, he boarded the vessel with an agreement of unpaid work until it reached Los Angeles, where two crew members would leave the ship, opening up paid positions. This experience marked the beginning of his international journey.
After two years on the ship to obtain his Norwegian Sailor’s Book, he returned home in 1965 to update his family and bid them farewell. His travels took him to Europe, where he faced uncertainty upon arriving in Germany, knowing the ship would soon be sold. After arriving in Rotterdam at midnight, he successfully found work on a steamer ship.
Throughout his travels, Qiolevu encountered racial discrimination, receiving advice from African seamen to consider different job opportunities due to his background. Fortunately, he secured a position on a welcoming Norwegian ship that allowed him to explore Europe, including visits to Egypt and Israel.
During one particular night in Holland, he was alerted to a fire on his ship, a frightening experience as he had been struggling to sleep due to the heat. The coast guard managed the situation, and despite the company wanting to send him back to Fiji, he chose to visit Norway instead, taking advantage of the opportunity.
His time in Norway led to an invitation from a captain to work on his ship. While it was common for seafarers to work for shorter periods, Qiolevu remained for three years, during which he was encouraged to pursue further education. Initially hesitant, he ultimately decided to leave the ship and focus on his studies.
Upon his return, he was informed of the requirement to spend two years in a workshop, during which he learned the Norwegian language—a challenging endeavor. However, by 1972, he graduated and officially earned the title of engineer.
Qiolevu credited his faith and the lessons learned throughout his life for navigating the uncertainties he faced. “God is wise and does not reveal more than we should know,” he stated. “We often seek more, but it’s vital to be patient. My life experiences taught me that.”