Vude Queen Laisa Vulakoro says she is honoured to receive the commemorative medal for Fiji’s 50th anniversary of independence by President Jioji Konrote.
Vulakoro, who has been in the music industry for the past 40 years, was among the 33 recipients who received the commemorative medal from Mr Konrote last week.
“First of all, I’d like to thank God and the President of Fiji and his office for recognising me. I feel very honoured today,” she said on Tuesday.
Vulakoro said she was at first reluctant to receive the medal.
“In fact, I’ve been reluctant to receive the reward today because I am not that kind of person and I also thought that there were others who also deserved to be awarded the medal but then again, my peers have been encouraging me to come and get it.”
Vulakoro said the medal was very significant for her because it portrayed her contribution towards the country.
“What I have been recognised for today is not only my contribution to the music industry, it’s also my contribution to using my influence in music to support all the less fortunate people in my community and that is the most important part for me today.
“This medal is for everyone who has supported me over the years.”
Alongside Vulakoro, veteran Fijian musicians Saimoni Vuatalevu and Seru Serevi also received medals.
