Youngest Tanoa Plaza worker inspires youth to chase education and success

At just 18 years old, Epeli Vula Roravudi has a clear message for Fiji’s youth: “Keep going to school and study hard so you can achieve better in life.”

The Naitasiri native, who works in the conference department at Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva, says the rising cost of living makes education and employment more important than ever.

“Life in Fiji now, everything is really expensive,” Mr Roravudi said in an interview.

“It’s better to get to work and we have Pacific Polytech and other institutes that the Government gives the grant and fees so you can get your certificate and get to work.”

Mr Roravudi is the youngest employee at Tanoa Plaza Hotel, a distinction he wears with pride and gratitude.

His journey began in December 2024 when he was attached to the Housekeeping Department.

After graduating from Pacific Polytech in February with a front office certificate, he returned in March to join the conference and events department.

“The work is not about age, it’s about how you know the work,” he said.

Epeli Roravudi with Minister for Health Atonio Lalabalavu and Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar.

Photo: Supplied

“I am so happy that this company employed me to work here at Tanoa Plaza.

“I learned a lot of things and they motivate me to keep pushing myself to achieve better in the future,” Mr Roravudi said.

The second youngest of five siblings has ambitious plans for his future, aiming to pursue a diploma and degree in tourism and hospitality management.

“I want to be a manager or anything in the future,” he said.

Mr Roravudi has caught the attention of several public figures, including Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar and Minister for Health Atonio Lalabalavu, who have both met with the young hospitality professional.

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