Fijian archaeologist, author and cultural advocate Dr. Tarisi Vunidilo has returned to Fiji on a mission to help children reconnect with their identity through storytelling, language, and heritage.
Dr. Vunidilo launched two major projects last night at the Fiji Museum: a bilingual children’s book titled Fiji: People, Culture and Identity, and a vibrant digital animation called Na Vo Mai Namosi (The Mudfish of Namosi).
Both projects aim to help Fiji’s youngest generation see themselves reflected in the stories they read and watch.
“To come back home and bring something tangible for our children, it’s very, very special,” said Dr Vunidilo. “Even though I’ve lived overseas for over 25 years, Fiji is always home. And giving back in this way means everything to me.”
Her book, written in both English and iTaukei, is designed as a fun and accessible, covering topics like traditional food, plants, famous places, and cultural events.
It’s part of a regional Pacific project supported by New Zealand-based publisher Peter Dowling of Oratia Books, which also includes children’s books from Tonga, Samoa, Niue, and the Cook Islands. Dr Vunidilo was chosen to represent Fiji, a proud moment she says she did not take lightly.
“Language is powerful,” she explained. “Writing in iTaukei was challenging, but so important. Children need to see and hear their own languages in books.”
Na Vo Mai Namosi, the animated series launched alongside the book, brings oral storytelling into the digital age.
Inspired by Fijian legends and village tales, the animation introduces children to traditional characters including the beloved Raguvulu, using playful visuals and culturally rooted storylines.
Dr Vunidilo says both the book and animation are just the beginning of what she hopes will become a wide collection of educational resources focused on Fiji’s diverse cultures and languages.
She encourages government ministries and educators to integrate more local content into school curriculums.
“Fiji is a multicultural nation,” she said. “We need more books in Rotuman, Hindi, Banaban, and other languages too. Every child should feel seen.”
In addition to the launch, Dr Vunidilo also shared her ongoing work on Oceanbone, a documentary film that explores the return of ancestral remains from international museums to Fiji.
The film, based on her PhD research, is currently screening globally and will eventually be released in Fiji.
Dr Vunidilo reminded everyone why she does this work.
“Everything I do is for our children. They are the future of Fiji, and they deserve to know where they come from.”
Fiji: People, Culture and Identity is available at the Fiji Museum bookshop.
By Ema Ganivatu
