It is not difficult to spot a Fijian, no matter which part of the world they are in.
Mereseini Banivanua, a nurse by profession, has been seen for the past two days assisting players and medical staff on the sidelines at the Hong Kong 7s tournament.
She is the medical liaison officer for women’s teams and part of the match day medical team here as a medic observer at the 2024 HSBC Hong Kong 7s.
Originally from Tavua, she has 27 years of experience in nursing and according to her, is the first Fijian to be appointed on the medical team at a World Rugby 7s tournament.
“It is a dream come true for me,” she said.
“Hong Kong China RU through Lucy Clarke has helped with medical supplies to aid with games standby.
“I was also privileged to be part of the Sports and Emergency Medicine Conference for the past two days, meeting WR and speakers, all for player welfare and World Point for showcasing necessary equipments for saving lives.”
She worked nine years with the Ministry of Health in Fiji, 10 years for the Suva Private Hospital, two years as a first light nurse.
She has also worked under Helipro Fiji and local and international Medevac.
She also has four years of experience teaching at the Fiji School of Nursing.
“Now I am working at LBJ Hospital and studying for my NCLEX exam in American Samoa. We have been networking since and they invited me and here I am.
“Thank you FRU for the opportunity. Thank you World Rugby for the experience.”
Bainivanua graduated in 1997 from the Fiji School of Nursing and progressed through to attain her Masters in Nursing in 2016.
“My love for community work expanded. I would do medical screening for churches, business houses.”
An athlete herself during school days, her passion for sports never died.
“Big vinaka vakalevu to all that supported me during my journey.”
