When Watisoni Mataki realised he wanted to pursue a career in fashion, he was up against challenges.
Being a male model in Fiji, one has to contend with stereotypical comments and ridicule. The hardworking 19-year-old experienced this firsthand.
But with a positive mindset and vibrant energy, he pushed all criticisms aside and followed his heart.
Today, the budding model is known in the fashion industry as ‘Mataki.’
This newspaper caught up with Mataki at the National Fashion Awards presented by Vodafone Fiji Fashion Week (FJFW) at the Grand Pacific Hotel two weeks ago.
Originally from Oneata, Lau with maternal links to Balenabelo, Nadroga, Watisoni walked away with the Emerging Male Model of the Year award.
“As a young boy modeling was something I always wanted to pursue,” he said.
“I was just obsessed with fashion, designing and colours. Mataki first joined FJFW casting in October last year and was later recruited to take part in the FJFW 2023.
“I am so thankful for Ms Ellen Whippy-Knight’s life, if it wasn’t for her Fiji Fashion Week I wouldn’t have this chance.”
Despite the barriers he had to hurdle over, Mataki said his parents were his greatest supporters.
“I faced criticism and hate from families, friends and even outsiders,” he said.
“But I realised that all the hate and negative talk would go away if I focused my mind on the goal ahead of me.
“My parents have been there all the way from my first show which was the pop-up street fashion show along the iconic Pier St in the heart of Suva City in April.”
Mataki was excited to share the great news with his parents after scooping his award.
“Through their support I was able to attend every show successfully and gracefully.”
When the Lauan lad isn’t making heads turn on the runway, he is busy welcoming people with his big bula smiles at Moments Café.
“I work at Moments so if you ever feel like you want to taste the best coffee in Suva, come on down to Moments.”
His immediate future plans include taking part in more shows and successful events like the National Fashion Awards.
“I’ve been booked for a couple of shows, I have the upcoming Wearing Fiji, Epeli Tuibeqa in October together with a show by FJFW which will be held on Denerau.
“In 2024, I plan to start schooling and will pursue something in fashion and design.”
Mataki believes youths, both male and female, should feel free and confident when pursuing their dreams.
“The keyword is confidence, if you have confidence then you can do whatever your heart desires.
“If you want to be a part of the fashion industry as a model then I would say, having confidence and discipline will help you achieve your goal.”
