People are beginning to take notice of a young woman whose voice is turning heads and whose story is inspiring a generation.
At just 29 years old, Jedidiah Kalomani Tuinasavusavu is already being called one of Fiji’s most powerful female vocalists, a recognition that comes not only from her talent but also her unwavering dedication to her faith and her family legacy.
Born into a musically inclined family which hails from Vaturomulo in Cakaudrove, Jedidiah grew up in a household of six girls, the second youngest in the family.
Her father, Milikiate Orowale Tuinasavusavu, was a singer and composer whose dream of producing music profoundly influenced his children.
“I used to hear stories of my father and sisters producing music and recording it on a cassette tape,” Jedidiah said.
“I would sing sometimes as I grew up a bit. But unfortunately, he passed away in 2003 when I was just seven years old.”
The loss of her father at such a young age was a defining moment. Yet, instead of letting it discourage her, Jedidiah made a vow to bring her father’s musical dreams to life.
Her eldest sister, Mei Tuinasavusavu, had already started paving the way as a gospel singer and composer by then.
“I look up to her greatly,” Jedidaih said.
Mei’s album, Dolavi Lomalagi, released on June 10, 2023, showcases a mix of traditional Fijian music and contemporary Christian influences, reflecting the family’s deep cultural roots and faith.
After her father’s passing, Jedidiah’s mother decided to send her to a Christian private school in Nadi, owned by her maternal uncle.
“I went to that school; it’s a Bible school. I spent my primary school years there and even finished high school in the same institution.”
Despite her deep-rooted religious education, Jedidiah initially explored a different path after high school. She pursued short courses in hospitality and tourism, but her heart always returned to music.
“Fast forward to 2018, I decided to enter the (inaugural) vocal battle.
“The competition was open to all, so I sent in my requirements, thanks to a friend of mine who helped me with the recording of the song and the video.
“I always like to challenge myself, that’s why I signed up for it. Plus, I had a very supportive family who pushed me also to take part.
“I remember it was a very competitive season; we had a lot of tough and good singers that season.”
And guess what? She emerged as the winner of the first season, a victory that kick started her professional career.
The following year, she represented Fiji on the international stage at a cultural arts exhibition in China.
The exhibition, titled Masi: A Cultural Fabric of Storying the Life of an Ocean People, was staged at the Luxseven Museum of Jewellery Culture & Arts in Shandong Province on May 15, 2019, coinciding with International Museum Day.
“I remember when I was there, I was so absolutely grateful to God for giving me the opportunity to showcase my talent as part of a delegation celebrating Fijian culture, including the traditional masi (tapa cloth).
“It was my first international trip as a musician, and I was very honoured to be part of that experience.”
Her journey soon expanded beyond music. Through her sister’s connections, Jedidiah was introduced to Andrew John Fakaua Ponton, a film director.
When the originally cast lead actress for the film Bati could no longer participate, Jedidiah was recommended for the role. The film shoot lasted three months, marking her first real foray into acting.
“It was a big experience and exciting, especially since this was my first time. When I was a kid, I always wanted to do acting, so it was a dream come true.”
She attended the premiere of Bati earlier this year, solidifying her place in both the music and film industries in Fiji.
“And then Covid hit and I was just at home, doing work here and there.
“But in 2022, I got the opportunity to join the Prima Voce opera team and be given the privilege to be a crossover artist in 2021 to 2022.
“We won the K-pop Fiji festival vocal competition in 2022 and recorded with a few amazing artists here in Fiji.
“Then another opportunity came in 2023. The Fiji Music Competition opened up.
“It was a long shot because a lot of people had signed up, and then we came down to 14 and then I came in third place. It was surreal.
“I am content because I gave my all even though I was sick throughout the day of the competition.”
Behind the accolades and public recognition, Jedidiah’s path has not been without challenges.
“People mostly see the achievements and the talents, but rarely see an artist’s struggles.”
She faced financial hardships and the difficulty of leaving jobs to pursue her dream, often facing ridicule for her choices. Yet, she persevered, drawing strength from her faith.
“What got me through it? God…. by the love and the grace of God and faith in Him, I was able to get to where I am now.”
Looking ahead, Jedidiah hopes to produce her own music and expand her acting career. While she has contributed to recordings with artists such as Josateki Wainiqolo and Justin Hickes, her goal is to create something that fully represents her vision.
“I want to make a name for myself, like my father wanted.”
For the younger generation, Jedidiah offers both encouragement and spiritual guidance: “Put God first. Your dreams, what you want to achieve, you can always achieve. Nothing is impossible when you put God first. And love your family, they will always be there for you, and if not, God will.”
From a small girl growing up in Vaturomulo to a national and international performer, Jedidiah has shown that even the loftiest dreams can take flight.
