FIJIANS should think about their health before they have a reason to worry about it.
That is the message 21-year-old Kali Shaw hopes to take across the country as a contestant in the upcoming 70th Hibiscus Festival, where her advocacy is focused on raising awareness of non-communicable diseases and inspiring healthier lifestyles across Fiji.
“Genetics may load the gun, but it is our lifestyle that pulls the trigger,” she said.
Speaking during an interview in Suva, Ms Shaw said she grew attached to hospitals from a young age, an experience that helped shape her passion for medicine and her dream of becoming a doctor.
The Mokani, Tailevu native, who has maternal links to Kadavu, is the eldest of four siblings.
Ms Shaw said being the oldest has taught her responsibility and strengthened her desire to set an example for those around her.
She attended several primary and secondary schools before completing her high school education at St Joseph’s Secondary School.
While moving between schools was challenging, Ms Shaw said it taught her to adapt to different environments and understand different personalities.
Beyond medicine and advocacy, she has a strong interest in debating and reading, hobbies she said have helped shape her confidence and broaden her perspective.
“I also enjoy listening to ’70s music as a way of unwinding from the demands of medical school.” Her decision to enter the FMF Hibiscus Festival was further influenced by a healthcare outreach programme, where she observed people living with NCD-related conditions, including obesity.
