A young man, aspiring to improve his life and support his family, tragically died in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Isei Tamanikalou, 21, originally from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans to return to Fiji National University to study engineering.
According to police, he was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man that crashed on Kings Road in Naviyago, just outside Lautoka. His grandparents, still grappling with their loss, remembered Mr. Tamanikalou as a bright and caring individual who made a lasting impact on those around him.
His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, shared the memory of their last conversation, which took place just hours before the accident. “We had just returned from church, and he mentioned he was going to Matanagata to visit friends. He had many friends in the village and enjoyed spending time with them,” she said. That was the last time she saw him.
“He was such a good boy—always shy and quiet but had so much love in his heart,” said his grandfather, Epitani Tabua. “He was well-liked and always willing to help around the house, never asking for much.”
Mr. Tamanikalou had recently completed a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was looking forward to his future. “He was eager to return to university and was focused on building a better life for himself. His determination was evident,” Mr. Tabua added.
One of the closest relationships in Mr. Tamanikalou’s life was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who adopted him as a child. “He always referred to him as ‘dad’ due to their close bond,” Mr. Tabua stated. “Isei was far too young and had his entire life ahead of him. Accepting his loss is incredibly difficult.”
An investigation into the accident is currently underway.