Little star steals the show

A six-year-old boy became the crowd favourite during the Ratu Sukuna Day celebrations at Subrail Park in Labasa yesterday.

Jemesa Vuetaki, the youngest member of a 30-member 'meke' (traditional Fijian dance) group, performed with the same energy and precision as the adults from Nasaqa Village, Macuata - proving that age is no barrier when it comes to preserving culture.

The year one student of Nabekavu Primary School lives at Vunibuluwai Settlement in Labasa. He said he grew up watching his father and siblings perform 'meke' while his mother joined the women's singing group.

"I always see my father and siblings dance, and I wanted to join too," he said.

"I first performed last year at the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North. This is my second event."

His father, Senior Jemesa Vuetaki, said the 'meke' tradition had been passed down in their family.

The 'meke' group from Nasaqa Village, Macuata, in Labasa on May 28, 2025. Photo: Shratika Naidu

"I learnt it from my late father who was from Koroalau District, Cakaudrove," he said.

"I'm proud that all three of my children are now involved. 'Meke' is part of our national identity. It keeps our family connected and united."

Dance group leader Manasa Koroma said they hoped to inspire young people through cultural engagement.

"We get as many young ones involved as we can so they grow up with discipline and pride in their culture," he said.

"Preparing takes time, but performing on the day makes it all worth it. We're proud to share our heritage."

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