Epeli Draunidalo Laliqavoka, a resident of Tarukua in Lau, reflects on the rich traditions of his culture, highlighting the importance of their heritage. At 75 years old, Epeli cherishes the learnings he received as a child from his father, particularly about the craft of producing magimagi, a type of traditional mat.
In his community, magimagi holds significant cultural value, especially during trips taken to Lakeba to visit the Tui Nayau. Community resources include two types of magimagi, with men often crafting the stronger versions, while women typically work on the decorative aspects. Epeli emphasizes the intricate and lengthy process involved in creating magimagi, noting the specific practices related to gathering and preparing the materials.
Epeli has been engaged in magimagi production for over 30 years. He began operating a business in 2007 after retiring from public service. His craftsmanship has garnered attention, leading to increased orders that he receives through social media platforms like Facebook.
Currently, he exports his magimagi to several international markets, including Australia, New Zealand, America, and the Pacific Islands, and provides products on local vessels as well. Prices for his magimagi start at $2 per meter, rising to $200 for larger orders.
Epeli describes managing the workload, noting that he often receives many requests at once and is careful to handle them effectively. He also acknowledges that making magimagi is not a simple task, requiring perseverance and skill.
Despite not having formal training in this craft from his ancestors, he has educated himself through observation and experience. Engaging local youth in production helps ensure the transfer of these skills, and he advises them to remain diligent and proactive.
Emphasizing the need for community resilience, Epeli expresses the importance of preserving their lifestyle and traditions while also adapting to modern challenges. He urges for a collective effort in maintaining their cultural practices and not relying solely on external aid. According to him, their traditional values rooted in spirituality and service can provide guidance for future generations.