A six-year-old boy, Jemesa Vuetaki, stole the spotlight during the Ratu Sukuna Day celebrations at Subrail Park, Labasa. As the youngest member of a traditional Fijian dance group from Nasaqa Village, Jemesa showcased his vibrant skills and energy, impressing the crowd alongside his older counterparts.
Jemesa, a year one student at Nabekavu Primary School, expressed his passion for dance, inspired by watching his father and siblings perform ‘meke’ throughout his childhood. This performance marks his second time showcasing his talent after his debut at the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North the previous year.
His father, Senior Jemesa Vuetaki, shared that the ‘meke’ tradition is a cherished family legacy, passed down through generations, with roots tracing back to his late father from Koroalau District. He takes great pride in seeing his three children involved, emphasizing that ‘meke’ is integral to their national identity and family unity.
Manasa Koroma, leader of the dance group, highlighted their commitment to encouraging youth participation in cultural activities. “We strive to inspire the younger generation by immersing them in our rich traditions, fostering discipline, and instilling pride in their heritage,” he stated.
The event underscores a growing movement within Fijian communities to preserve cultural practices amidst the challenges of modernization. Similar sentiments were echoed during the recent discourse by leaders like Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, who emphasized the critical need to safeguard traditional customs and protocols. Encouraging active involvement from community elders in teaching the younger generations highlights a collective effort to sustain Fijian cultural identity.
Cultural celebrations like Ratu Sukuna Day not only serve to honor Fijian heritage but also reinforce community ties, nurturing hope and resilience for future generations. There is a promising outlook as these initiatives instill pride and encourage the revitalization of traditional practices through the active engagement of the youth. Events like these provide an essential platform for continuing to connect with and celebrate Fijian culture, offering a brighter path for the community as traditions thrive in a modernizing world.
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