FIJI: Volunteering in Naiserelagi

This Summer, for six weeks, I was fortunate enough to travel to the other side of the world, to Fiji, to take part in a four-week volunteering project. Living with a Fijian family, in their home, spending days at school, teaching and playing sports, not to sound cliché, but it really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

It seems that all I have done since being back is talked about Fiji and how amazing it was.

Even before going to University, I had always dreamed of going travelling and volunteering abroad, but I never imagined that I would actually have the guts to do it. Thinking back, at the start of the year, when I went to a Think Pacific presentation, pretty much as soon as the presentation started, I knew it was something I wanted to do. But again, I never actually believed I could do it. But I did it. I signed up. Quite recklessly actually, but I knew that if I didn’t do it, I might not ever get an opportunity like it again.

Fast forward to Summer 2018, July 15th at Heathrow airport. Saying goodbye to my dad, knowing that I wouldn’t see him, or have much contact with him, or my family and friends, for six weeks. I felt emotional. I was really nervous, but also really excited. I was lucky enough to have two of my close friends with me, as they were doing the project too. For months I had been so used to saying “when I go to Fiji”, “I’m going to Fiji soon”, “I can’t wait for Fiji”, but being at the airport, with my very large backpack, things were suddenly starting to seem real.

After two long, turbulent flights (11 and a half hours to Hong Kong, then 14 and a half hours to Nadi), I arrived in Fiji! Before the project started, we spent a few days exploring Nadi and adjusting to the 13-hour time difference. As the days flew by, we quickly realised that days of staying in hotels, eating delicious food and sunbathing was coming to an end. It was time to go to the village.

As I entered Naiserelagi, a small village in the north of Viti Levu, I was quite nervous, but instantly after meeting the kindest, most generous people, I was immediately put at ease. Their smiles are infectious and their hospitality is remarkable. They are so welcoming; you are instantly treated as though you are a child of their own. Living in a Fijian village, with a Fijian family, is something so unique, so amazing, it really puts things into perspective about what is important in life.

Yes, the homes were basic, with a tap for a shower (which was cold), and with multiple family members living together under one roof. And yes, at times it was challenging, but seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces, seeing the growth and change in confidence in the children, is priceless. And the things that I expected would be difficult, were not. When you’re in Fiji, you forget about things that would normally bother you, and you realise just how precious life is.

Teaching in school, playing sport with the kids, spending quality time with my new family, exploring at weekends, learning about Fijian culture, it is impossible to pinpoint one favourite moment. I have made memories for life, friends for life, and even better, I now have a new family that I will never forget. I am so proud of everything I have done. Just by being there, you realise what an amazing difference you are making to so many people’s lives. Their appreciation is indescribable, and extremely rewarding. I look forward to the day that I go back to Fiji, to Naiserelagi, and see my amazing family again.

If anyone is debating volunteering abroad, or more specifically, with ThinkPacific, I would 100% urge you to go for it! It’s a life-changing experience, that will have a positive impact on your life forever, leaving you with unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.

Vinaka Think Pacific!