WAISIKI Naqiolevu, a 31-year-old from Soso, Kadavu, has recently returned to Fiji after completing a transformative two-year journey in India, where he earned a Master of Arts in English Literature at the prestigious Delhi University, funded by a scholarship from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Reflecting on his experience, Mr. Naqiolevu expressed pride in representing Fiji in a country he now considers a second home. He described the initial challenges he faced, overwhelmed by the vibrant culture, languages, and diverse cuisine of India. “I came as a student, but India made me feel like I came home. India taught me that diversity is not a weakness, but a strength,” he stated.
His education at Delhi University extended beyond the curriculum of literature; it included a deep dive into the cultural richness of Indian society. He shared, “My professors taught me not just literature but about Ambika, Vande Mataram, and myriad beliefs that shape a society. They believed in me even when I doubted myself.”
Mr. Naqiolevu’s time in India encompassed significant cultural experiences, including celebrating Diwali and Holi, as well as indulging in local street food and chai. The transition was not without its struggles, particularly at first when local customs and the language felt foreign. He credits his faith as a vital source of support during this challenging period, noting, “In a place where they don’t speak my language or share my food or beliefs, my connection to God became deeper. Prayer was my coping mechanism.”
Back in Fiji, Mr. Naqiolevu is committed to inspiring fellow iTaukei and Fijians to pursue similar educational paths. “If I can do it, they can do it. There’s always hope,” he emphasized. He discovered the ICCR scholarship through a lecturer friend while studying at the Fiji National University, and he champions such opportunities as means to uplift lives and positively impact society.
With a wealth of knowledge and experiences from his time abroad, Mr. Naqiolevu is eager to enter academia, hoping to motivate others and share the lessons of unity and resilience he learned in India. His journey stands as a testament to the fact that with determination and support, success is within reach for many.