At just 22 years old, Aisea Naboko from Burenitu Village in Ra has transformed his childhood dreams into reality as a flight attendant. Now in his third year in the aviation industry, Naboko connects passengers across the Pacific and beyond, all while proudly representing his roots with each journey. However, his ascent into the skies hasn’t been without challenges.
Like many Fijians from rural backgrounds, Naboko’s path has been paved with determination and the unwavering support of his family. Initially pursuing a degree in hospitality and tourism at Fiji National University (FNU), he made the tough choice to pause his education to gain financial stability. Recognizing the importance of planning for his future, he expressed, “Education is still part of my plan, but I want to be financially ready before I go back to school.”
His experiences in the airline industry have cultivated discipline, teamwork, and professionalism, invaluable skills that go beyond customer service. Reflecting on his early days, Naboko recalls feeling a mix of excitement and nerves during his first flight, which solidified his sense of belonging in this role.
This job has granted him the opportunity to explore dream destinations including Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Yet, the most rewarding aspect lies in the connections he forges with passengers from diverse backgrounds. “Every flight brings new faces and new stories… it makes you appreciate how big the world is,” he noted.
Throughout his travels, Naboko remains deeply connected to his Fijian heritage, frequently acknowledging his home in Ra and the values instilled in him there. The support from his family, including his parents and four siblings, has been instrumental in his journey. He emphasizes that his achievements are a reflection of their belief in him.
Outside of work, Naboko treasures moments spent with family and friends, finding joy in simple experiences such as visiting the coast or relaxing in the village. He recognizes that being a flight attendant involves hard work, challenging passengers, and navigating different time zones, yet he thrives on the unpredictability every day brings.
Naboko’s role has expanded his understanding of the impact of service, revealing how small gestures can significantly affect others. He is committed to showcasing the Fijian spirit during his travels and hopes to inspire other young Fijians, particularly those from rural communities, to dream big.
“I want people from villages like mine to know that their dreams are valid. If you work hard, stay respectful, and believe in yourself, you can go far in life,” he said, embodying a message of hope and possibility for future generations. For Naboko, the sky is merely the beginning of his journey, as every flight he undertakes carries the aspirations of a young man from Ra who dared to dream above the clouds.