“THE challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not a bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humour, but without folly.” — Jim Rohn.
This often used quote perhaps best personifies the Tui Vitogo, Ratu Wiliame Ratudale Sovasova, a chief and a leader who has for many years served his people with dignity, humility and strength.
The humble chief from the vanua o Vitogo celebrated his 70th birthday a fortnight ago.
The festivities and sentiments shared at the event, marked the celebration of a life of service.
People from all walks of life gathered in the chiefly village outside Lautoka City to celebrate the life of a gentleman who has always looked after the needs of every person he crossed paths with and every person who sought his assistance.
Ratu Sovasova is the eighth of 10 siblings and has been the holder of the chiefly title for the past two decades.
His 70th birthday celebration also coincided with his wife’s 59th birthday and their 38th wedding anniversary.
The Tui Vitogo worked at the Fiji Pine Ltd before retiring at 55, just in time to adhere to the call of the vanua and his people.
“Reaching 70 years is only possible through God’s abundant blessings,” Ratu Sovasova said.
“I wish to thank my family, my wife, the vanua and every person I have crossed paths with for they have one way or the other contributed to this long life.
“Each and every success of my life’s accomplishment has been only through God.”
Opposition Member of Parliament Jese Saukuru, who was the master of ceremony at the birthday celebration, said the life Ratu Sovasova lived should set a great example to the young people of today.
Despite being a chief, Ratu Sovasova would always go out of his way to ensure his people’s needs were met, their cries were heard and their pleas answered.
He has five children and 12 grandchildren.
