A young man aiming to create a better future for himself and his family tragically lost his life in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning.
Isei Tamanikalou, 21, from Matanagata in Vatukoula, was set to return to Fiji National University to pursue a degree in engineering. According to police, he was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man that crashed along Kings Road in Naviyago, near Lautoka.
His grieving grandparents described Mr. Tamanikalou as a bright young man with a big heart who made a lasting impression on everyone he met. His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, is still in deep sorrow over his passing and recalls their last conversation just hours before the tragedy.
“We had just returned from church when he said he was going to Matanagata to visit friends,” she remembered. “He had so many friends in the village and loved spending time with them.” That was the last time she saw him.
“He was such a good boy. Always shy and quiet, but full of love,” his grandfather, Epitani Tabua, said. “He was cheerful and well-liked by everyone. He loved to help around the house and never asked for much.”
Mr. Tamanikalou had recently completed a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family eagerly anticipated his future. “He was excited to return to university and was determined to build a better life for himself. He was very focused on that goal,” Mr. Tabua added.
One of Mr. Tamanikalou’s closest relationships was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had adopted him as a child. “He always called him ‘dad’ because of their close bond. They shared a very special relationship,” Mr. Tabua said. “Isei was too young. He had his whole life ahead of him, and it’s incredibly hard to accept that he’s gone.”
An investigation into the accident is currently underway.