FOR Josivini Naihamu, the McDonald’s Fiji Fijian Drua Women’s Awards was more than a celebration of an outstanding season.
The 2026 awards night was the reward for years of sacrifice, faith and unwavering family support.
The soft-spoken forward from Vagadra village in Nadroga, who also has maternal links to Nalele in Malomalo, walked away as the biggest winner of the night after claiming the prestigious McDonald’s Fiji Player of the Year award.
Her remarkable season was further recognised with the Encore Players’ Player of the Year award, voted by her teammates, and the Fiji Airways Try of the Year award for her spectacular finish, ahead of fellow nominees Aqela Raitubu and Kolora Lomani.
Despite her stellar campaign, Naihamu admitted the honours came as a complete surprise. “I am nervous and excited but thankful for this opportunity and the players and the staff for choosing me as a player,” she said moments after receiving the awards.
“I only know that I gave my all throughout the season, but I didn’t know that I would get the Player of the Year.”
Those words perfectly reflect the humility that has made Naihamu one of the Drua’s brightest young stars.
A former student of Swami Vivekananda College, Naihamu comes from a family where rugby is deeply rooted. With two brothers playing professional rugby overseas, the sport has always been part of her upbringing.
Now, she is creating her own legacy.
While the awards recognise what she has achieved in 2026, Naihamu believes her journey is only beginning.
She revealed that her biggest achievement this season has been opening doors to opportunities beyond Fiji.
“I played my heart out to get some of the opportunities from outside the world,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to some opportunities that are coming and I’m still praying for some other opportunities.”
Her rapid rise is also becoming a source of inspiration for young girls across the country, particularly those who dream of wearing the Drua jersey one day.
Naihamu encouraged aspiring female players to embrace rugby, saying the game can change lives in ways they may never imagine.
“To my younger sisters who are planning to play rugby, yes, it’s a good option. It can take you to places you never dreamed of, so you can choose rugby.”
Behind every success story, however, is a support system that keeps the dream alive.
For Naihamu, that unwavering support comes from home.
Whether watching her on television when the Drua play overseas or travelling to the grounds to cheer her on in Fiji, her family has been with her every step of the way.
Asked who she wanted to dedicate her awards to; there was no hesitation.
“Firstly, to my family back at home for the love, support and the prayers,” she said.
“When we go out to play in overseas, they watch me on the television and if we play here back at home they will come.
“These awards is dedicated to them.”
Still only at the beginning of what promises to be a bright career, Naihamu has already shown that talent, humility and faith can be a powerful combination.
Her unforgettable 2026 season has not only earned her the Drua’s highest individual honour but has also announced the arrival of another proud Nadroga rugby star chasing even greater dreams on the world stage.
McDonald’s Fiji managing director Marc McElrath, (left), presents the 2026 McDonald’s Fiji Player of the Year award to Josivini Naihamu during the McDonald’s Fiji Fijian Drua Women’s team awards night held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau Nadi on July 28, 2026.
Fiji Airways executive manager of Marketing and Brand Christina Templin (left) present the 2026 Fiji Airways Try of the Year award to Josivini Naihamu during the McDonald’s Fiji Fijian Drua Women’s team awards night held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau, Nadi on July 28, 2026.
