A young man who aspired to create a better life for himself and his family tragically died in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Isei Tamanikalou, 21, from Matanagata in Vatukoula, was preparing to head back to Fiji National University to pursue a degree in engineering.
Authorities confirm that he was one of three passengers in a vehicle operated by a 30-year-old driver, which crashed on Kings Road in Naviyago, near Lautoka.
His grandparents, who are still grappling with the grief of their loss, described Isei Tamanikalou as a promising young man with a kind heart, leaving a profound impact on everyone who knew him. His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, recalled their last interaction mere hours before the crash, when he mentioned visiting friends in Matanagata after they returned from church.
“He had so many friends in the village and loved spending time with them,” she said, reflecting on the last time she saw him.
“He was such a good boy. Always shy and quiet, but with so much love in his heart,” his grandfather, Epitani Tabua, shared. “He had a cheerful disposition and was well-liked by all. He enjoyed helping around the house and never asked for much.”
Mr. Tamanikalou had recently earned a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was looking forward to his promising future. “He was eager to return to university and was determined to build a better life for himself. He was so focused on achieving that goal,” Mr. Tabua added.
A significant relationship in Mr. Tamanikalou’s life was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had adopted him during his childhood. “He always called him ‘dad’ due to their close bond,” Mr. Tabua noted. “Isei was too young. He had his entire life ahead of him, and it’s incredibly difficult to accept that he’s gone.”
Authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the incident.