On a tranquil morning in 1975, a young girl named Eka Buadromo stepped barefoot onto the sandy shores of Naroi, embarking on her journey to Yasayasa Moala College. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a remarkable path that would lead her to become one of Fiji’s most esteemed medical professionals.
Dr. Buadromo’s experiences at Yasayasa Moala Junior Secondary School were foundational to her development, instilling in her qualities of discipline, resilience, and determination. During the 1970s, the school environment was challenging, with rudimentary facilities including dormitories made from reeds and thatch. Students were awakened each morning by the lali, a wooden percussion instrument, and began their days with agricultural duties before academic lessons even commenced. A significant part of the curriculum involved cultivating gardens to provide meals for the student body.
Reflecting on her time at the school, Dr. Buadromo recalls the hard work that went into maintaining these gardens, emphasizing the communal effort involved in weeding, planting, and harvesting crops throughout the year. She acknowledges the hardships of boarding school life, including homesickness, limited meal options, and strict discipline, all of which played a role in shaping her character.
Language was one of her initial challenges; Dr. Buadromo faced teasing for her attempts to speak English, which affected her academic confidence and communication skills as she transitioned to higher education in Suva. Yet, the lessons learned at boarding school extended beyond academics. Traditional songs and chants nurtured a sense of gratitude and camaraderie among students, lessons she fondly remembers from her interactions with educators like Jope Rabukawaqa and Saimone Dobui. The lyrics of these songs depicted the struggles of island life, reflecting both hardship and appreciation for the resources of Moala.
With the support of her family and the values instilled by her education, Dr. Buadromo became the first graduate from her school to pursue medical studies. She acknowledges that many of her teachers were skeptical about her potential, given the perceived limitations of her educational background. However, through perseverance and hard work, she proved them wrong, crediting the life skills and resilience she developed during her formative years.
The principles of teamwork learned during her school years have continued to guide her throughout her career. Dr. Buadromo, now a consultant and Head of the Department of Pathology at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, as well as Senior Laboratory Advisor at the Pacific Community, embodies the triumphs possible for island women with dreams and determination.
Even as she shares her story and valuable lessons with her children, emphasizing that “good life is never easy,” Dr. Buadromo remains a beacon of inspiration. Her journey illustrates the remarkable potential of women from the Pacific Islands, showcasing what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. As International Women’s Day 2026 is commemorated, her life serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience inherent in women, encouraging future generations to pursue their dreams unwaveringly.