Talimagimagi the Voices of The Vanua

   Karoko villagers remind us: Change starts when we choose to be the safe space “ Culture and traditions should never be used to justify violenceWhile culture and tradition are powerful sources of identity, belonging, and continuity  especially in a place like Fiji where communal values run deep they must evolve when they cause harm. ”  These words, spoken by Participant 3 in a recent survey, echo a reality many communities in Fiji continue to face. While culture and tradition are powerful sources of identity, belonging, and continuity especially in a place like Fiji where communal values run deep they must also evolve when they cause harm. Too often, harmful practices or beliefs are defended under the guise of “tradition,” even when they perpetuate gender inequality, silence survivors, or normalize abuse. During a recent community dialogue in Karoko Village, this tension was brought to light. Villagers emphasized the urgent need for safe spaces where survivors o...

  Climate Change and the Loss of Traditional Knowledge Climate change begins its impact at the grassroots level, where the smallest disruptions ripple into daily life. In Karoko, elders spoke about how the collection of mangrove bark for tapa dyeing has become both a tradition and a threat if mangroves are not replanted, the sea wall of protection they provide could vanish. This reflection was a wake-up call: communities must balance cultural practices with sustainable management of natural resources. Villagers shared how planting vetiver grass and replanting trees are not just projects but a legacy for their children. The discussion emphasized that resilience requires both knowledge and collaboration sharing information between villages so solutions spread like seeds. Projects must also be designed to thrive long after external funding ends, which means empowering communities with skills and leadership rather than just materials. Training young people to lead and sustain climate ...

  Empowering the Next Generation 🌱✨ Karoko Village | 16/09/2025 When was the last time you sat with your children not just to teach, but to truly listen? On the 16th of September at Wainisisili Hall in Karoko Village, I had the privilege of sitting with children and teenagers for a session on goal setting, values, and online safety. What unfolded was more than a program. It was an awakening for them, and for me. The children spoke with a raw honesty that both surprised and humbled me. Some admitted how TikTok sometimes fills their minds with negativity. Others bravely shared about exposure to pornography, or how they give out social media passwords in relationships. Heavy truths for such young hearts but truths that needed space to be voiced. To illustrate value, I held up a $10 note. I crumpled it, folded it, even tore it slightly. Then I asked, “How much is this still worth?” They shouted, “Ten dollars!” That opened the floor to a deep conversation. Some children believed that ...