Everything aligns perfectly when it’s God’s appointed time, a sentiment that resonates deeply with Jone Vuto, the newly elected vice president of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, Jone recounted the challenges he faced throughout his life and how they have shaped his faith and personal journey following his successful nomination during the Bose Ko Viti.
Originating from the village of Motokana on Ono-i-Lau Island, Jone’s mother, Ofa Ciri, is from Sawana, Vanuabalavu. He was born in March 1970, just six months before Fiji gained independence from Britain, in the Lomaiviti Group. He spent his early years growing up in the village of Nasau on Koro Island, where his father, Josefa Ciri, worked as an agriculture officer.
Jone completed his primary education at Nasau Fijian School, eventually moving to Viti Levu to attend the renowned Ratu Kadavulevu School. After repeating Year 11 at Tailevu North, he transferred to Tavua College, following his father’s job relocation. However, after failing his Year 12 exams, Jone resisted his father’s wishes to repeat the year, leading to his temporary relocation to live with his uncle in Navunisole.
During this time, Jone experienced a turning point. He began to miss his family and regretted not pursuing his education. Motivated to change his path, he sought support from a local doctor, who encouraged him to return to school. Eventually, he registered at the Fiji Institute of Technology, where he studied automotive engineering and later graduated in 1993.
Despite entering the Public Works Department, Jone was unenthusiastic about the labor-intensive work. Choosing a different path, he joined a computer business where he learned on the job and eventually ran it with former Fiji representative Mosese Nabati and Marika Vakawaletabua, officially registering as Quality Touch Electronics. Though he later ventured into video production, filming and editing funeral services, he eventually stepped away from that business to focus on church responsibilities, a decision he feels was well worth it.
Growing up, Jone was not drawn to social activities, preferring to stay home. This solitude prompted him to reflect on his childhood, fostering a strong foundation of discipline instilled by his parents. He credits his mother specifically for guiding him to think critically about his decisions.
His journey back into church and fellowship began in 1992 when he attended gatherings at Centenary Church. Over the years, he became deeply involved, ultimately leading the youth fellowship just two years after joining. Through ups and downs, he dedicated himself to making positive contributions and meeting the expectations of his role.
Jone met his wife, Laisa Moce, during a church event, and they married in 1996, welcoming three children and embracing their roles as grandparents. With a commitment to guiding his children, Jone became a Sunday school teacher at Centenary.
Throughout his service in the Methodist Church, Jone rose steadily through leadership ranks while managing his business. In 2018, he became the divisional steward, responsible for several church circuits in Suva. Most recently, he was elected vice president at the Methodist Church conference, a role requiring a significant commitment as he supervises the church’s various divisions across the country.
Reflecting on his new responsibilities, Jone expressed his desire to inspire young people to value their parents and cherish their time together. He shared how he accepted Christ with his mother’s help and emphasized the importance of striving for excellence in all endeavors, regardless of recognition.