Boat tragedy survivor turns trauma into lifesaving skills

As a Class Two student, Misideni Tanoa clung to hope as the boat carrying him and his family slowly disappeared beneath rough seas between Vatulele and Viti Levu.

For hours, the frightened youngster drifted with other passengers before reaching the safety of Korolevu.

Years later, that terrifying experience inspired his determination to prepare himself for emergencies at sea.

Now 30, Mr Tanoa, of Ekubu, Vatulele, is among participants who recently completed a two-week maritime safety training programme, equipping him with practical skills in vessel operation, engine maintenance and emergency response.

"I went through a very traumatic experience when I was just in Class Two," he said.

"Our boat capsized while we were travelling from Vatulele to Viti Levu. We drifted safely to Korolevu. I was the youngest on the trip and I remember being carried while we were drifting at sea until we reached safety."

The incident happened in 2002 on a rainy day aboard the church-owned wooden boat Kosipeli.

Mr Tanoa recalled that the front section of the vessel had been slightly damaged, allowing seawater to pour through an opening.

"The engine was okay, but the boat quickly went under because of the amount of water that came in," he said.

Although the group spent only a day at sea before reaching land, the experience left a lasting impact.

"For those of us who travel regularly between Vatulele and Viti Levu, we know how rough the sea can become."

Determined never to feel helpless again, Mr Tanoa enrolled in the training to gain the skills needed to protect both himself and others.

"The two weeks of training taught us safe and responsible vessel operation and strengthened our skills in maintaining and repairing boats and engines, especially when we face problems at sea," he said.

"We have also acquired practical skills in responding to emergencies at sea."

The training also carried deep personal meaning.

Mr Tanoa said it brought him one step closer to following in the footsteps of his late father, who was a boat captain.

"I know my father would have been so proud of me if he was still alive. He was a boat captain, and I aspire to be like him."

Mr Tanoa was among 83 participants who received certificates in Yamaha outboard engine repair and maintenance, as well as the Boat Master Licence and Restricted Master Class 6 training.

The training was part of the Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki initiative led by United Nations Development Programme with support from the Fiji and United Kingdom governments.