Twin sisters Moala Leba and Vika Gavidi have made a poignant return to their village of Waitabu in Lakeba, Lau, after more than two decades away. This visit holds significant emotional weight for them, as they reflect on the lives of their two younger siblings who have passed away, and for Vika, her late husband, Peni Gavidi.
“It’s been so many years, and so much has changed, but one thing that hasn’t is our love for Waitabu,” Ms. Leba expressed during their visit. The last time the sisters were in their hometown, they were only 49 years old, and this return has awakened treasured memories of their childhood.
Vika noted the special significance of their long-awaited trip as she flew in from Australia to join her sister. As the eldest of nine siblings, the twins were pioneers in their family, leaving Waitabu due to their father’s sacrifices that allowed them access to better educational opportunities.
“We left the village to attend Ballentine Memorial School,” Ms. Gavidi reminisced, recalling how their father worked diligently to fund their education. He supported the family through harvesting copra and selling beche-de-mer, even organizing seaplane travel for them to get to school—an experience that the sisters deeply cherish.
“Every sacrifice he made was for us,” Vika reflected, expressing that coming back feels like honoring their father’s hard work and dedication. Their visit has been highly anticipated by family and the Waitabu community, who are preparing to give the sisters a warm welcome.
This journey represents more than just nostalgia for Moala and Vika; it is an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage and honor their family legacy. “This trip is about more than just us; it’s about remembering our family, our beginnings,” Ms. Gavidi concluded. “It’s about healing and celebrating life amid the loss.”
The sisters departed for Lakeba on Tuesday, marking the beginning of this meaningful homecoming filled with memories, love, and a renewed connection to their roots.
In reflecting on the sisters’ journey, one can appreciate the importance of familial bonds and the power of returning to one’s origins, especially in overcoming grief and cherishing the memories of loved ones. This trip signifies a heartfelt reunion with their past and a celebration of resilience amidst life’s challenges.
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