Kelera Oli, a descendant of Solomon Islanders, experienced a profound moment of reflection on Thursday when she came across a photograph of her late father at a booth at the National Archives in Suva. This encounter occurred during a two-day event commemorating the 160th anniversary of Melanesian laborers arriving in Fiji. The photo evoked a flood of memories, emphasizing her father’s enduring influence on her life.
Luke Oli, Ms. Oli’s father, was a devoted educator in the late 1900s, a time when Fiji’s Melanesian community faced significant colonial injustices. He dedicated his life to teaching at St Paul’s Primary School in Naviavia and St John’s College, a school established specifically for the Melanesian population. The family experienced numerous relocations before ultimately settling in Suva, where Ms. Oli remembers the discrimination she faced because of her Solomon Islander heritage.
Despite her challenges, including being viewed as an outsider when she transitioned to Adi Cakobau School, an all-girls’ boarding institution chosen by her father, Ms. Oli reflects positively on the values imparted by her father. She stated, “Seeing my father’s image brought back hope and a sense of restoration.” His teachings remain central to her identity, and despite not being present anymore, his influence continues to uplift her.
Attending the anniversary of the Melanesian community’s arrival in Fiji also deepened Ms. Oli’s connection to her heritage, filling her with a renewed sense of belonging and pride.
The history of the Solomon Islanders in Fiji reflects a rich legacy that began in the early 1880s, culminating in the last group arriving in 1911. While many returned home after their three-year work contracts, others chose to stay and build communities, particularly in Levuka and Suva. Unlike their counterparts in Australia, who faced deportation, the Solomon Islanders in Fiji managed to remain, even as they grappled with marginalization and a struggle for land tenure and recognition.
The ongoing resilience displayed by descendants like Ms. Oli is a testament to the strength of their ancestors and the lasting impact they have made on Fijian society.
This article serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and the strength gained through overcoming discrimination and adversity. The legacy of the Melanesian community in Fiji continues to thrive, with individuals like Kelera Oli at the forefront, honoring their past while embracing a hopeful future.
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