From humble beginnings to a role in regional climate action, Talei Gadekilakeba’s journey has been one that reflects determination and courage.
Raised by parents who left the village and moved to Suva determined to give their children the best of opportunities, Talei Gadekilakeba learnt the value of discipline and responsibility at an early age.
“Although they both dropped out of school, they both worked hard to ensure all their children attended high school to pursue tertiary education,” she said.
“Most of my life I saw my parents struggle as they strived to move forward. Although they were tired and weary at times, I never saw them back down.”
Ms Gadekilakeba admits, however, she didn’t fully appreciate their sacrifices much until later in life.
“And that saddened me.
“I was ashamed that my parents were struggling and that we did not have a certain standard of living. I despised it deeply and this was partly responsible for making me work hard.
“Along the way, the Holy Spirit helped me see my parents in such a deep, grateful way for their sacrifices and commitment to give me a better chance at success.”
Being the second youngest of seven children, Ms Gadekilakeba was always the adventurous child.
“After school, everyone was expected to wash their own uniform and clean the house before having fun games with the neighbours, but for me it was the reverse.
“For me, it was always fun first, then chores. I would go bike riding with my cousins, usually being the only girl amongst them.”
Her adventurous streak, she believes, was what developed her leadership qualities.
“I think my adventurous side paid off.
“I became the first in my family to be recognised as a leader beyond our home when I was given the opportunity to lead at a Blue Light Camp.
“I had a way of talking that some would call vesumona.”
In 2012, Ms Gadekilakeba was appointed head girl of Suva Grammar School.
After successfully completing high school, she secured a scholarship from the Fijian Affairs Board to pursue further studies at USP, which was also a first in her nuclear family.
She went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Since then she has worked in the private and public sectors while also serving in her local church.
Ms Gadekilakeba is the executive administrator of the Pacific Island Action Network (PICAN) and is based at its headquarters in Suva. The regional organisation works to advance climate action across the Pacific.
In her role, she handles operations and liaises with team members and stakeholders to ensure the organisation’s mission and vision move forward in the region and internationally. Personally, however, the best part of her job is seeing everything come together.
“It’s rewarding to see operations and systems executed and completed to support the team, whether it’s finalising travel arrangements or moving other critical parts of the organisation forward.”
When it comes to staying motivated, Ms Gadekilakeba reminds herself that everyone will eventually die, including those who doubt you, those who talk about you, even the one who loves you and the ones ahead of you.
“This reminds me not to care too much about what others think, but work hard, stay disciplined and not just motivated.”
At the very core of her journey lies her faith in God.
“The Lord Jesus Christ holds the biggest credit for supporting me through the lives of my parents and siblings.
“Through learning and following the ways of Jesus, it has kept me going in some of the difficult seasons of my life.”
In her current professional role, Ms Gadekilakeba hopes to achieve the completion of all the strategic goals set out for the operations of PICAN in 2025.
Beyond her work, she is passionate about empowering the youth.
“This is so important to me because it is connected to my journey.
“I remember being in my 20s and acting like I had it all figured out, but in reality I had no clue.
“From my experience, I do whatever I can to help young people be exposed to those who have gone ahead in life, to help them make wiser decisions early and be empowered to move forward.”
Ms Gadekilakeba leads a group of young adults from her church where she exposes them to mentors and role models from different walks of life.
“It’s important to start at home, and if it’s too much, start with yourself.
“Do what you told yourself you would do and keep those promises you made to yourself. Staying consistent will help build your confidence and self-esteem, but above all else, be invested in knowing God from the Bible.”