Adi Salaseini Muavesi Lesianawai has seen the sea as more than just a source of livelihood, but a pathway that has helped shape her dreams.
Raised in Yavu Village on Batiki Island during her primary school years, Adi Salaseini grew up in a community where travelling by boat was simply part of everyday life.
It was this close relationship with the ocean that inspired a lifelong passion for the maritime sector and ultimately led her to pursue a career dedicated to protecting Fiji’s waters.
Today, she is an integral part of the team at the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), where she contributes to promoting safe and secure maritime transport while helping safeguard the nation’s marine environment.
Her commitment to the field has now earned international recognition after graduating with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Maritime Law from the prestigious International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI).
Adding to the milestone, she was selected to deliver the valedictory address on behalf of the IMLI Class of 2025-2026 and was awarded the institute’s Prize for Best Performance, recognising her academic excellence and leadership.
Although she proudly traces her paternal heritage to Vuna, Taveuni, Adi Salaseini’s maternal roots connect her to Yavu Village, where she attended Batiki District School and spent much of her childhood.
Family holidays and gatherings have ensured her connection with the village has remained strong throughout the years.
Her achievement has been warmly celebrated by the people of Yavu, who describe her success as an inspiration for young people across Batiki, Lomaiviti and Fiji.
Adi Salaseini’s commitment is also a reflection that determination, humility and faith can overcome the challenges often faced by children growing up in remote island communities.
While her work in international maritime law continues now to the next level, her outstanding achievement, which no doubt becomes an invaluable asset to Fiji is proof that “big ocean states” like Fiji are more than capable of producing impact leaders on the global stage, while at the same time remaining firmly anchored to the grassroots that helped shape their ambitions.
