Miriama Taletawa, a prominent weightlifter, expressed deep emotion after being honored as the 2024 Fiji Airways Sportswoman of the Year at the recent Fiji Sports Awards, held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. This marks her second consecutive win, following her triumph in the previous year.
Taletawa received this prestigious award due to her remarkable performances in several competitions, including her participation in the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships held in Suva. Overwhelmed by the recognition, she stated, “I’m still surprised. I never thought that it would be the second year for me to be the sportswoman of the year. It’s a big surprise.”
Looking toward the Pacific Mini Games in Palau later this year, Taletawa dedicated her award to her coach, Henry Elder, whom she credited as a major source of inspiration. She highlighted his crucial role in her development, saying, “He’s the first one to introduce the sport to me and then he trained me, he took me to competitions even in tours overseas.” Elder conveyed a sense of optimism during the awards ceremony, acknowledging the unpredictability often associated with such honors.
During the event, Selestino Ravutaumada from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua was also recognized as the Sportsman of the Year, showcasing the diverse talent of Fijian athletes across various sports.
The accolades received by Taletawa and her peers serve as a motivating example for aspiring athletes in Fiji, emphasizing that dedication and hard work can lead to significant achievements. This spirit of resilience and success not only highlights individual accomplishments but also signals a bright future for sports in the nation, inspiring the next generation of talented athletes.
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