Representing his country has always been a dream for Sakiusa Naivana. He played for the Fijian Whites against Tonga in the Oceania World Qualifying/ Zonal Championships at the Vodafone Arena, Suva yesterday.

Travelling all the way from Palau, Naivana says, it is always a joy to represent his country even though he had to pay for his way over.

“Growing up in a ‘ghetto’ at Nabua Housing, I never thought I would make it this far,” he said.

“I had set this goal to represent Fiji in indoor volleyball way back in 2003. I left Fiji in 2005 to be a missionary and when I was there I received a message from the coach so why not? It’s been a dream come true for me.”

Naivana attended Nabua Primary School and later Ratu Sukuna Memorial School before he dropped out on his first year at high school.

“Never in my wildest dream did I expect life to make this turn. I was a high school dropout. I come from a poor family. We struggled but all we believed in God. I didn’t know how to speak English then but know I’m speaking the language and travelling all over the world. Also I have my own family and God has been my inspiration.”

Naivana had earlier represented Fiji in beach volleyball in 2012 and on his new achievement he has dedicated to his new-born son.