Page 5 - Fiji Traveller Issue 4

Bula

Welcome to the new Fiji Traveller, an issue of firsts.

Our cover story features social enterprise Rise Beyond the Reef, which is
now stocking its handicrafts and products imbued with meaning and the
hands of their makers on Amazon. Writer Ariela Zibiah introduces you to
some of the women who weave the mats, sew the dolls and stencil the
printed goods RBTR sells as part of its program of supporting women and
their communities in rural Fiji.

We also share the pure joy of Anirban Mahapatra’s first sighting of a manta
ray in Fiji waters, a dispatch from the Lancaster Press Fiji’s first group
exhibition in Malaqereqere, and meet first-time author, Nilima Rao.

Rao has written A Disappearance in Fiji, book one in a trilogy of detective
novels set at the dawn of World War One, which imagines the Fiji Indian
Girmitiya experience and introduces as its hero, a first-time arrival to Fiji,
Indian policeman Akal Singh. Rao speaks of her writing and research in
this magazine and on our website, reflecting, “I really wanted to represent
the history of Fiji to the best of my ability. There was a real earnestness
behind this, so I hope it strikes the right chord.”

This issue of Fiji Traveller also includes another neighbourhood guide—
this time we visit Maui Bay on the Coral Coast, plus a guide to vegetarian
dining in Suva. We also have profiles of chef Nilesh Chand, wellness coach
Sisilia Naisiga, the young musicians V5, and fashion label Sugarose.

Doing things for the first time requires bravery, whether it is writing a book,
opening an art studio in rural Fiji or starting a band as teenagers. We are
happy that we can share the stories of these pioneers, and hope it inspires
you to forge your own path, whether you are an adventurous visitor to Fiji
or a curious local.

Travel well,

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