The inspiring journey of Susana Qionibaravi, who stands as Fiji’s only female representative at the upcoming Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championship, underscores the transformative power of sports. A mother of two from Nasau in Lomaiviti, Qionibaravi took up powerlifting just nine months ago and is poised for her international debut.
At 36, she embraces her role as a pioneer in a sport often dominated by younger athletes. “I’d really like to call on more girls and women, especially mothers,” she remarked, highlighting how her foray into powerlifting has significantly changed her life. Over these brief months, she has not only honed her skills but also emerged as a motivating figure for aspiring female athletes.
Her infectious enthusiasm encourages women to “step into the unknown” and experience the joys of strength sports. “You will never know until you try,” she insisted, advocating for more women to join the sport and emphasizing the ample support available for newcomers.
Qionibaravi’s remarkable narrative is especially pertinent as Fiji prepares to host the 2026 Oceania Regional Championship. She aspires for her participation this year to inspire other women to take up powerlifting, visualizing a future where more females don the national colors in competitions.
Beyond motivating female athletes, Qionibaravi has already made significant strides in the sport, participating in numerous national events and setting notable performance benchmarks. Her determination is contributing to an increasing recognition of women in Fiji’s powerlifting arena.
The powerlifting landscape in Fiji is experiencing a thrilling transformation, marked by a rise in female competitors and the breaking of traditional barriers. Recent events, such as the National Powerlifting Championship, showcased a notable surge in female participation, highlighting a movement towards inclusivity and empowerment in a historically male-dominated sport.
Qionibaravi’s path mirrors that of other female athletes in Fiji who are making a name for themselves in strength sports, further driving interest and involvement at all levels. With her sights set on success in the upcoming championship, she embodies the essence of perseverance and inspiration that can uplift entire communities. Alongside other emerging stars like Mereia Clariss Talei Turaganivalu, Qionibaravi not only showcases personal success but also serves to inspire future generations of female athletes in Fiji and beyond.