Fiji’s Makayla Sukhu, a full forward for the Junior Vonu Under-17 Australian Football League (AFL) team, expresses her aspirations of emulating her mother, Vilisi Sukhu, who was a member of the inaugural Fiji women’s Vonu team in 2014. Makayla credits her mother as her primary inspiration for venturing into the sport.
Having loved AFL since childhood, she emphasizes that team bonding and endurance are essential for excelling in the game. Sukhu is optimistic about the future of AFL in Fiji, recognizing its multi-faceted and challenging nature while also wanting to encourage her sister to participate in the sport.
In addition to her football pursuits, Sukhu recently made headlines by earning the Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) title at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, where she performed commendably against 193 countries. Besides AFL and chess, she is also a netball player for Suva Grammar School and the Lomaiviti club.
Balancing academics with sports is a challenge that Sukhu embraces, acknowledging that sports offer her a mental break from her studies. She attributes her achievements to divine support and is deeply grateful for her parents’ unwavering encouragement.
The story of Makayla Sukhu showcases the influence of family legacy in sports while highlighting the importance of mentorship and perseverance. As she actively engages in multiple athletic disciplines, her journey reflects the potential for diversified talent to flourish in Fiji. With her determination, it is hopeful that AFL will continue to grow in popularity in the country, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions.
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