The holiday season brings joy and togetherness, and for 21-year-old Mereani Matakibau, this year’s festivities hold extra special meaning. After spending significant time in England, Mereani is realizing her dream of returning to her island home in Fiji, a heartfelt birthday gift she requested from her parents.
Originating from Makadru Village in Matuku, Lau, Mereani recently celebrated a milestone birthday. Instead of a traditional celebration, she requested the chance to reconnect with her family and her roots in her ancestral village. She arrived in Fiji last week and she is set to embark on a boat journey with her father to fully embrace the island’s vibrant culture during this festive season.
Mereani shared her excitement, stating, “This trip is about reconnecting with my heritage.” The opportunity to spend quality time with her paternal grandparents, whom she hasn’t seen since infancy, adds to the significance of her visit. This journey is not just a holiday—it represents a deep reconnection with her family and heritage.
As the middle child in a family of three, this is the first time Mereani is traveling to Fiji independently. She has previously made multiple trips to the island, but this eighth visit stands out as her first without her brothers. With each visit, her bond with her homeland has grown, creating treasured memories.
Already, Mereani is enjoying her time with relatives and is filled with excitement about traveling to Lau for the first time. She is accompanied by her father, who also traveled from England, and looks forward to soaking up the warmth of Fiji, especially after the chilly winter back home. “Fiji is so hot, and I love it here,” she quipped, even hinting at the possibility of extending her stay.
This trip promises to be filled with precious moments spent with family—cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, and grandparents—all while embracing the customs and traditions of village life. As she embarks on this meaningful journey, Mereani expresses her gratitude and shares her holiday wishes, sending warm greetings for a Merry Christmas to everyone. This homecoming symbolizes hope, belonging, and a joyful return to her roots.