Fijiana XVs player Josivini Naihamu has caught international attention with a nomination for the Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year 2025 at the World Rugby Awards. Her impressive debut international season has positioned her as a key figure in the future of rugby. She is competing for the award alongside New Zealand’s Jorja Miller and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, following her significant contributions in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup held in England.
World Rugby praised Naihamu for her exceptional performances, particularly during Fiji’s final pool match against Wales where she scored two tries. This achievement marked her as the player with the highest number of tries in a single tournament. Over her debut season, she accumulated seven tries in six Tests, beginning with a remarkable hat-trick against Tonga during the Oceania Women’s Rugby XV Championship, which Fiji won decisively 54-5.
Hailing from Vagadra, Nadroga, Naihamu’s rugby success is celebrated by her family and community. Her mother, Vilisi Misimisi, recalls watching Naihamu play in the World Cup with pride, underscoring the emotional and supportive journey behind her daughter’s achievements.
Beyond her World Rugby nomination, Naihamu has been acknowledged domestically, receiving the 2025 Encore Women’s Rookie of the Year award at the Fijian Drua awards. As the younger sister of Japan winger Jone Naikabula, her rise in rugby marks a personal and national milestone, highlighting the strong presence of Fijian rugby talent on the global stage.
Naihamu’s recognition is part of a wider movement celebrating Fijian athletes, many of whom have earned accolades at international rugby award events. Her inspiring journey exemplifies the growing prominence of female athletes in Fiji, leaving a trail for future generations in the sport and beyond.