While chiefs took their places on the main dais and traditional ceremonies unfolded before hundreds gathered for the Lau Provincial Council meeting in Suva, much of the event’s success rested on the quiet dedication of people working behind the scenes.
Among them is Muavesi, of Yaroi Village, Matuku, one of many women whose months of preparation helped ensure the historic gathering ran seamlessly.
“This year’s Bose ni Yasana ko Lau carries special significance for Matuku, making the occasion one of celebration and renewal for its people.”
For Muavesi, the event represents the culmination of months of planning, sacrifice and teamwork.
She said preparations had begun last year, with members of the Matuku community working collectively to fulfil their responsibilities to the vanua.
“We are very happy and pleased with how our preparations have unfolded,” she said.
Although the meeting was initially planned to be held on Matuku Island, organising the event in Suva presented an entirely different set of challenges.
Many Matuku people involved in the preparations live and work in the capital, requiring them to juggle full-time employment while volunteering countless hours to coordinate logistics, ceremonies and hospitality.
Despite the obstacles, Muavesi said the support from those back home never wavered.
Villagers contributed fish, root crops and traditional presentations, while families worked together to prepare the mats, masi and ceremonial decorations used to welcome the paramount chief of Lau, the Tui Nayau, Ratu Tevita Uliulakeba Mara and President and Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
She said the collective effort reflected the enduring spirit of “Matuku Dua” — the unity for which the district is known.
“There were challenges along the way, but we learnt valuable lessons from them. We tried our utmost best to ensure everything was complete and nothing was left out,” she said.
Hearing Ratu Naiqama commend Matuku’s organisation following Tuesday’s opening ceremony brought a deep sense of pride to everyone involved.
Muavesi reserved special praise for the women of the island, whose tireless work often goes unnoticed.
She thanked them for their commitment and for ensuring every aspect behind the scenes flowed smoothly.
As the provincial meeting concludes today, Muavesi said the people of Matuku remained committed to carrying out their traditional duties with excellence — honouring both their chiefs and a milestone that will be remembered for generations.
