For many of us, being attached to a family unit from birth gives us a sense of community and belonging. And as we go on through life, similar bonds are forged through relationships – whether it be platonic or romantic.
But as the old adage goes, blood is thicker than water and for one man, this was what sparked his journey to find his identity.
Meet Lawrence Prasad. Born and raised in Melbourne, he is a child of two worlds – his Fiji-born father Hari Chand Prasad and Australian mother Pearl.
His childhood was a painful one. His parents divorced when he was only five-years-old, which led to him to live in foster-care.
He battling severe depression and morbid obesity. It was in December 1994 that he made a decision that would leave a lasting impression on his life.
He left for Fiji and stayed with his kaka (dad’s younger brother).
This step marked the beginning of his journey to learn the ‘grey’ parts of his family and trace his roots on his paternal side.
He now plans to bring his 84-year-old mother, Pearl, to Fiji, in July this year where he hopes to reunite with the rest of his extended family.
“I have not tried to search for my extended family before,” he shared.
“This was all motivated last year when I started working with the national archives. My dad’s sisters are getting old, and don’t remember much, and while they are still alive, I want to arrange this family reunion in July.
“We have been successful in locating my aaji’s (paternal grandmother) sister, she is over 94 or 96 years. ”
She is the oldest family member and doesn’t remember her own parents’ names.
“I was able to let her know that information as the National Archives found the ship passes but I am trying to find information on my aaja’s (paternal grandfather) side of the family. We haven’t been able to locate much on his parents.”
Now, Lawrence hopes his story reaches his family, and that he is able to reconnect with his extended family in Fiji.
“I would really love to connect with family members I have never met. Perhaps family in Fiji that don’t know they are related too, for us to come together in unity. Even though we are all diverse, there is a commonality through love and our unique heritage.”
He thanked the staff at the National Archives of Fiji and the registrar general at the Ministry of Justice who are aiding him in his search.
Those with any information can reach out to Lawrence on lawrence.fiji1@gmail.com
