VETERAN journalists, some of whom have passed on, and some have continued to lead the younger media workers today, were remembered for their dedication and contribution that helped shape Fiji’s media industry.
At the FAME Awards on Saturday night at the Novotel Lami Convention & Entertainment Centre, five veterans were inducted into the Fiji Media Hall of FAME Class of 2025.
Vijendra Kumar
First local editor of The Fiji Times. Known as a mentor and symbol of courage, respected for his unwavering commitment to truth. He helped shape generations of journalists.
Masimeke Latianara
Devoted half a century to informing the people of Fiji about developments in Fiji, he started as a civil servant and joined FBC in 1958. He spent 55 years in the industry. He retired at 80 years old and passed away in 2019.
Laisa Taga
Originally of Votua, Lekutu in Bua, she was the first woman to be editor of a daily newspaper in Fiji, Had 30 years of experience in the industry and became assistant editor at Islands Business. She reported past military coups since the first in 1987. She started her career in 1978 as a cadet reporter with the Fiji Sun. Passed away in 2014
Keith Broadbridge
Veteran broadcaster who arrived in Fiji in 1952 with one suitcase. He started with the FBC and spent 63 years in the media industry.
His voice, famously known for reading local and world news became one of most recognisable and most trusted voices in the country.
Widely respected in community. He passed away In 2019.
William Parkinson
A visionary who in the early 1980s, as a 22-year-old graduate. Started doing research in opening a radio station in Fiji. In 1984, he changed the future of broadcasting in Fiji by launching the first 24-hour FM radio station — FM 96.
His innovation and persistence established one of the most influential media organisation and the company celebrates 40 years of success this year.
