ACHIEVEMENT | Epi, a creative influence

CREATIVITY for Epi Nasaroa is unbounded, it flows with ingenuity. Challenging the status quo of creative arts in Fiji, Epi has brought fresh perspective through his work.

Epi is a freelance creative consultant who has been guiding artists behind the scenes in the music industry.

Originally from Lekutulevu Village in Vaturova, Cakaudrove with maternal links to Naivucini Village in Nadaravakawalu, Naitasiri, Epi is no stranger in the local creative arts sphere.

Growing Up

Before Epi stamped his mark in the music and fashion industry, he was a dutiful son who grew up in a warm Christian household.

His late father was a Methodist Church pastor and most of Epi’s childhood was spent moving around Fiji where his father was posted for mission work.

After his father completed his studies at the Davuilevu Theological College in 1990, they were posted to Bukuya Village in Magodro, Ba where they guided the community in their faith.

There young Epi adjusted to village life with his family and got an education at Magodro District School.

Of course, being raised in a pastor’s house Epi was familiar with the responsibilities associated with mission work and not long after serving the community in Magodro, his family was packing again for a new post in Vanua Levu.

This time it was to Naruwai in Dama, Bua. There Epi attended several primary and secondary schools and broaden his learning – a norm for any pastor child.

“We later relocated to Suva when my father was transferred to Vunidakua Methodist Church in Cunningham.

“There I was able to attend Ratu Sukuna Memorial School in Nabua from Form 2 to Form 6,” he said.

After high school we went on to study at the Fiji Institute of Technology (now FNU) as a graphic designer.

Today, Epi lives life to the fullest and he shares that with his four siblings.

They continue to hold on to cherished moments they’ve shared with their late father and mother – the strong pillars who nurtured them to be kind and independent.

Creative streak

Epi had to carve a different path when it came to his career, and he trusted his ability to create novel concepts.

Although his parents initially wanted him to study medicine by Year 11, he knew deep down he wanted to pursue a creative career.

“My passion was sparked by reading Vogue magazines and watching MTV shows brought back from the U.S. by my cousin, Savuto.

“When I discovered the internet and social media in 2004, my vision became clear, I wanted to create a life and career in the creative industries.

“I am a trained graphic designer, having studied at the Fiji Institute of Technology from 2005 to 2006. Early in my career, I worked at Kriz Signage and later branched into other creative industries.

“My passion for fashion led me to pursue a Certificate III in Applied Fashion Design and Technology at APTC, where I studied alongside the likes of Atelaite Daunibau (Sugarose), Laisiasa Davetawalu (Elaradi), Epeli Tuibeqa (KuiViti), and Su Samuels (LavaLani).

“Under my label Nasaroa, I showcased collections at the Fiji Fashion Week in 2016 and 2017.

“In 2018, I was appointed creative director of The Vintage Link [Fiji] Pte Ltd, publishers of I AM WOMAN and I AM TEEN magazines, where I managed brand development and creative production.”

Love for Music

As Epi’s creative career flourished, his love for music also took centre stage.

Being deeply involved in Fiji’s music industry since 2004, he began exploring artist branding and development through MySpace.

“My first project was with my cousin, Savuto Vakadewavosa whose brand we nurtured from our school days until the release of his hit debut single Bulou Noqu I Tau in 2010.

“Over the years, I’ve collaborated with artists such as KKU, Elena, VLY, Nasio Domoni, Ilisavani Cava, Tua, Laisa Vulakoro, Mickey Niurua, Accalewas, Etta Gonerogo, Aggie Vakaloloma, Josa, Natalie Raikadroka, and Sassy, among others.

“In 2020, I formed the boy group Yanu Boyz, releasing their debut EP Noqu Dina in 2021 under my newly launched record label, Spotlight Entertainment.

“Since then, we’ve developed other music groups, including Fourtunetz, a boy band created through an online talent search.”

Production and Management

Epi also has experience in event production and management which began when he joined the Hibiscus Festival Committee in 2006.

Gaining that experience from the Hibiscus Festival Committee launched his work with the Fiji Performing Rights Association where he was secretary and event committee member.

“I worked with FIPRA as an event producer for a decade and was recently appointed to the FIPRA Board of Directors alongside industry icons such as Laisa Vulakoro, Isireli Gumatua, Natalie Raikadroka, and Georgina Ledua.

He is proud of how far he’s come.

“I find fulfilment in many projects, but music videos stand out the most.

“Over the past two decades, I’ve produced or co-produced over 40 local music videos.

“Being involved from the creative concept to directing alongside production teams is always rewarding. My personal favourites to date are Dei by Kali Tui and Delamaca by Tunite & Leba.

Inspiration and Overcoming Challenges

What motivates him is being able to help people when he can.

“In my early years, most of my work in music was volunteer based. I wasn’t paid but I thrived on contributing to the personal and professional growth of others. That sense of purpose continues to motivate me today.

For inspiration, he finds it in the benevolent love of his family.

“Like many people, my greatest inspiration comes from wanting to care for my loved ones, to build a better future and leave behind something meaningful.

But with success there are challenges that people need to overcome in life.

For Epi and those trying to make a living in the music industry it’s the lack of infrastructure, limited opportunities and minimal institutional support towards their work.

“We’ve often had to build things ourselves—not only for our own success but for the generations coming after us.

“I don’t like to quit. I believe in finishing what I start, no matter how long it takes.

“When faced with challenges, I focus on finding solutions and persevering until the project is complete.

Future Plans

For the future, Epi hopes to grow Spotlight Entertainment.

“I want to continue growing Spotlight Entertainment as a music label while also exploring opportunities in Fiji’s emerging film and television industry.

“I see great potential there and I would love to be part of its development.

When his not creating a music video or managing an event, he simply takes time to rest.

“I’ve come to appreciate the importance of rest, especially learning from coach Sunia Soko Loga about how sleep is essential for healing and recovery.

Sharing his advice to those interested in his line of work, he says “never doubt yourself”.

“Believe in your abilities first — only then can others believe in you.”

He hopes his story can inspire many to explore their creative ability and thrive in society.