Sigani Expresses Gratitude for Being Chosen

The thought of representing Fiji on an international platform was not something Epeli Sigani had ever dreamt of.

However, Epeli expressed his gratitude for being chosen to represent Fiji at the 13th Pacific Festival of Arts and Culture in Honolulu, Hawai’i.

He hails from Ravita Village in Saqani, Cakaudrove, and is the second youngest of four siblings.

Currently, he is a second-year student at the Methodist Lay Training Centre (MLTC) in Davuilevu.

“When we were informed that a group of us would be representing Fiji, we were excited. This is the first time I have travelled overseas, and I have only seen movies about Hawai’i and heard about it on the radio, but to be here in person is unbelievable,” Sigani said.

“My family is happy for me, and I want to thank God for His provision in my life. We have traveled around Fiji to showcase iTaukei traditional dance, and to be here proudly representing Fiji is something I will never forget.

“Most of the time, we aspire to represent Fiji in Rugby, but to represent Fiji through a Church institution is something I will always be grateful for. When my name was called and I was told that I was one of the team members, I was happy but also afraid, especially knowing that I was going somewhere I had never been before.”

Epeli remarked that being part of FestPac was an eye-opener.

“It’s interesting to see how other countries proudly showcase their culture, tradition, and customs. The event itself has encouraged me to continue learning and to be proud of my identity, never to be embarrassed about who I am,” he said.

“My language and tradition should never be compromised by anyone, and no one should be the reason I question my language, tradition, culture, and customs. Being here, I have learned a lot and will share what I have learned with my peers back home.”

Epeli is one of the 18 students from MLTC.

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