Page 21 - Fiji Traveller 2024 Issue 6

Dance has the power to make positive change in
the world, [particularly] in an age where people
are becoming more and more detached from
each other by screens and technology. We are
separated by differing beliefs and fear, yet we
still have that inner human need to connect to
others, to have experiences. Experiences that
are real. Experiences that are lived. Experiences
that are human. In a time of polarisation and
division, dance helps us recognise our common
humanity, that we are no different from each
other, that we are interdependent, and we are
one.

- Sachiko Soro, Director, VOU Dance Company

iTaukei meke, Bollywood, jazz, hip-hop, ballet and contemporary “The recognition of this diploma by the Fiji Higher Education
dance, to name a few. Commission puts it alongside any other subject that is taught at
SPC Deputy Director General Science and Capability, Dr a tertiary level in Fiji, such as law, accounting or medicine.”
Paula Vivili said: “Times change, and culture evolves, but one Part of the curriculum also involves dance analysis
thing that does not change is how we use our dances to tell presentations, development of business proposals and pitches,
our stories. Guided by principles of artistic entrepreneurship, choreography and improvisation.
of making passion your paycheck, of sustainable and fulfilling VOU also seeks to empower women and youth, who often
careers, is bound to drive you to success.” face significant barriers in pursuing careers in the cultural
He congratulated VOU for its vision and commitment to the and creative industries. By providing equal opportunities and
arts and to dance in Fiji, and for setting a high standard through supporting marginalised communities, VOU is bridging gender
the development of nationally accredited programmes which and generational gaps in the sector.
contribute to Fiji’s tourism industry. VOU Conservatorium of Dance 2023 Valedictorian, Adi
“This is a wonderful example for the rest of the region on how Senibuli Kula Vatuwaliwali is one such example.
locally led and driven companies can make a difference. The “We have been gifted with talent and blessed with opportunities.
cultural and creative industries remain underdeveloped in the Now it is our turn to use this. To dance and keep dancing, to keep
region with very limited support or resources. VOU is recognised pushing so that one day in the near future, a kid can say, 'I want
as a leading institution that is home-grown and is playing a key to be a dancer', and not be questioned at all. We are using our
role in helping to shape and strengthen the arts sector through gifts, our talents and our skills, to build something that will live
focused training and education. VOU is creating viable career past us. Something more precious than any diamond. A future. A
pathways for young artists, dancers, and other employment future so bright and big and all ours,” 24-year-old Adi Kula said.
opportunities within the value chain of the performing arts,” Dr Over 100 youth applied for admission into the course and of
Vivili said. these, 30 were invited to an intensive one-week trial to experience
Explaining the components of the course, Mrs Soro said: “This the rigour and training required to work as a professional dancer.
Diploma in Dance took many years of curriculum development Of these 30 potential students, 20 were selected and awarded
under the mentorship of the University of Auckland dance the ACP-EU funded scholarship. Of the 20 selected, only 13
department. [We] then [had] to fulfil the rigorous process of were able to fulfill all the requirements of the demanding course
having our level six tertiary diploma program accredited through and graduate with the Diploma in Dance.
the Fiji Higher Education Commission.

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