'He always put others first': Tributes pour in for teacher Mateo

A 30-year-old school teacher whose life was tragically cut short by electrocution on Saturday is being remembered by his family as a kind-hearted man whose warmth, generosity, and dedication touched everyone around him.

Mateo Nabalemoto’s sudden passing has left a deep void in the lives of his loved ones, who are now gathered at their home in Lobau Village, Namosi, mourning his loss and reflecting on the joy he brought to family, friends, and students alike.

He died at Naitonitoni in Navua and was a teacher at Ratu Simione Matanitobua College.

“He was not just a teacher to us, he was like a brother. He always made time for family no matter how busy he was,” said his sister-in-law, Karalaini Tamani.

“Mateo would check on everyone, share stories, laugh with us, and make sure no one felt left out.”

The late Mateo Nabalemoto.

Photo: Supplied

Ms Tamani recalled the last time they spoke on Saturday, when he left for a sports event in Navua, promising to return. Hours later, the family received the devastating news from police that his life had ended.

“We were asleep when we heard the police knocking on our door. At first, we thought it was something minor,” Ms Tamani said.

“But when they told us they had identified Mateo’s body, my heart just sank. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I thought I was dreaming. I kept hoping someone would tell me it wasn’t true,” she said.

“This kind of pain is something you cannot prepare for. It came so suddenly.”

Passionate about teaching, Mr Nabalemoto took pride in shaping young lives. “He believed in helping students become better people, not just in school but in life,” Ms Tamani said.

“He always said teaching was not just a job, it was his calling.” As the family leans on each other for strength, they vow to honour his memory.

“We are heartbroken, but we are grateful for the time we had with him. We will always remember his kindness, his smile, and the way he cared for everyone. That is how we want him to be remembered.”