A young man, dedicated to improving his life and that of his family, tragically died in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning.
Isei Tamanikalou, 21, hailing from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans 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, just outside Lautoka.
His grandparents, deeply affected by his loss, described Mr. Tamanikalou as a bright, promising individual with a generous spirit who made a significant impact on everyone he encountered.
His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, is still struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. She reminisced about their last conversation, which took place shortly before the accident.
“We had just returned from church, and he mentioned he was going to Matanagata to visit friends,” she stated. “He had many friends in the village and cherished spending time with them.”
That would be the final time she saw him.
“He was such a good boy. Always shy and quiet, yet filled with so much love,” his grandfather, Epitani Tabua, said. “He was cheerful and well-liked by everyone. 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 excited about his future prospects.
“He was looking forward to returning to university, expressing how committed he was to building a better life for himself. He was very focused on achieving that goal,” Mr. Tabua shared.
A significant relationship in Mr. Tamanikalou’s life was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had adopted him as a child.
“He always referred to him as ‘dad’ because of their closeness. They shared a unique bond,” Mr. Tabua remarked.
“Isei was too young. He had his entire life ahead of him, and it’s so difficult to accept that he is no longer with us.”
The police are continuing their investigation into the incident.