In the recent 44th Annual Fiji Nurses Sports Tournament, first-time participant Miriama Bukalidi stood out among the many nurses who took part. Bukalidi, who works at the Valelevu Health Centre, represented the Nasinu Medics team and embraced the excitement of playing netball after an extended break from the sport. She reflected on her experience, expressing joy in not just the competition itself, but also in reconnecting with colleagues and friends from nursing school.
“This is my first time taking part in the tournament,” Bukalidi shared. “I know it’s been a long time since I played netball, but it’s been a fun experience playing with my colleagues and reuniting with nurses from around Fiji.”
Balancing their demanding schedules as medical professionals and their commitment to training proved challenging for Bukalidi and her teammates. “Most of us are shift workers, so we had to find a way to balance our work and training. We often ask other colleagues to cover shifts, allowing us to train for the tournament,” she explained.
Throughout the event, Bukalidi enjoyed the camaraderie and shared the joy of competing with peers, solidifying bonds founded in their past as nursing students. After a successful and dynamic debut, she is already looking forward to participating again next year.
The tournament, held on Saturday at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, concluded with CWM Hospital claiming the title as the overall winner, showcasing the competitive spirit and resilience of nurses across the country. This annual event not only promotes sportsmanship but also strengthens the sense of community among healthcare workers, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and connection beyond the workplace.
In reflecting upon the experience, it is encouraging to see how sports initiatives like this tournament facilitate personal growth, foster connections, and provide a much-needed outlet for professionals balancing demanding careers. This year’s participation by Bukalidi may very well inspire more nurses to take the field, enriching the sense of community within the nursing profession in Fiji.