At the age of 35, Salesi Balekivuya has spent nearly half his life incarcerated at the Naboro Prison Facility. As his sentence approaches its conclusion, Balekivuya reflects not only on his regrets but also on the significant personal transformation he has experienced during his time in prison.
Convicted of murder at just 19 years old in 2010, Balekivuya was sentenced to life imprisonment in August 2011. While his peers began to chart their futures, he faced the stark realities of life behind bars. Originally hailing from Kubulau in Bua, Balekivuya grew up in challenging neighborhoods such as Raiwaqa, Raiwai, and Jittu Estate, where negative influences guided him toward a life of crime.
“Back then, we had our own plans for life,” Balekivuya shared, reflecting on his past choices. “But I’ve come to believe that God already has plans for us.” This spiritual awakening has led him to consider prison not only a place of punishment but also a space for reflection and personal growth.
Throughout his incarceration, Balekivuya has rediscovered a passion for woodworking. Although he had prior experience in the craft, his true appreciation for it blossomed during his time at Naboro. By working alongside fellow inmates, he honed his skills in carving and joinery. “I believe in life, whatever knowledge you have should be shared,” he remarked on the importance of collaboration and learning from one another.
With his release set for August this year, Balekivuya looks forward to starting anew. He plans to return to his hometown in Bua, where he aims to establish a small joinery business, utilizing the skills he has cultivated in prison to rebuild his life and uplift others.
For Balekivuya, the years spent behind bars have transformed from mere confinement into a pivotal turning point, presenting him with a renewed sense of hope and purpose as he prepares to embrace a more positive future.
Leave a comment