Jone Vuto’s life story exemplifies the belief that everything aligns perfectly at God’s appointed time. Recently elected as the vice president of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, Vuto shared his journey of faith and resilience after his nomination during the Bose Ko Viti.
Born in March 1970 in the Lomaiviti Group, just six months before Fiji gained independence from Britain, Jone spent his childhood in the village of Nasau on Koro Island. His father, Josefa Ciri, worked as an agriculture officer, which led the family to the area.
Jone attended Nasau Fijian School for his primary education and later moved to Viti Levu to enroll at the prestigious Ratu Kadavulevu School. He faced academic challenges, failing his form six exams twice, which resulted in a temporary move to live with his uncle in Tailevu to work on the land.
This period proved pivotal for Vuto, as he began to reflect on his choices and realize the importance of education, feeling regret for not taking his father’s advice. Encouraged by a local doctor, Jone returned to school and eventually pursued studies in automotive engineering at the Fiji Institute of Technology (FIT), graduating in 1993.
After an apprenticeship with the Public Works Department, Vuto opted for a different career path in electronics, co-founding Quality Touch Electronics before establishing his own video production business. However, as his commitment to the church grew, he had to close his business.
Throughout his youth, Vuto led a quiet life, shunning the nightclub scene and reflecting on a rebellious streak fueled by strict parents. It was through church fellowship in 1992 that he rekindled his faith and commitment, ultimately becoming a leader of the Centenary Church’s youth group.
In 1996, he married Laisa Moce from Kadavu, and they have three children and a granddaughter. Jone became a Sunday school teacher, focused on nurturing his children’s spiritual lives, which further anchored his commitment to the Methodist Church.
His leadership roles within the church progressed rapidly, and after accepting the position of divisional steward, he successfully oversaw multiple church circuits and youth programs. This year, he was elected vice president of the church, a role that will see him nurturing the church’s 60 divisions across Fiji.
Vuto is eager to serve in his new capacity, recognizing the responsibilities it entails while humorously reflecting on his past duties. He emphasizes the importance of respecting parents and elders, sharing that he received Christ with his mother’s guidance. Jone’s inspiring message encourages individuals to pursue excellence in every endeavor, regardless of the circumstances.