Joni Madraiwiwi - lives in Suva Fiji.
Began his education at LPS
Dink - Double income no kids
Joni has 8 nephews and 1 niece and is devoted to all of them. He encorages their "free spirit" none of which we enjoyed as children because our parents never knew such a thing existed. This is because he recognises that they have to adapt to a fast changing world and Fiji's traditional system has to evolve as well.
In December, January and February ( 1977- 78 ) he spent the time with his friends in delaide as he waited to repeat 2nd year of his studies in law.
The best person to approach when frustrated about events that is out of your control. If you are asking for sympathy you won't get it, his advice to you will be
short, sharp and to the point but always resulting in a calming effect.
He is further connected to LPS through his wife Lusi, who is the daughter of ex LPS student, the late Edward Kikau. Lusi is not just a wife but his closest friend whose judgement he respects. Joni's regard for people and their communities was shaped by his parents and growing up in Levuka.
Wing Kang, Canada 2009
I was born in Vagadaci, grew up in Levuka and attended LPS from P. 1 to Form 6. Remembering climbs to the “peak”, school dances and gala days, end of year class picnics to Nawowo, making tin boats and riding the waterfront, fishing off the seawall, and swimming at the “falls” will always evoke memories of a wonderful period in my life. After leaving LPS, I immigrated to Canada to complete university studies. Since 1976, I have worked as an Environmental Health Officer in Alberta.
Thanks to my love and best friend Donna, for without her nothing would be possible, much less worth doing. She was born in Lautoka but we met halfway around the world in Vancouver, Canada. We married in 1982 and have a son and daughter. This year is special for Donna – she trekked China’s Great Wall, climbed Diamond Head in Waikiki, and scaled the gruelling Grouse Grind in North Vancouver.
My hobbies are gardening, fishing and cooking; also passionate about playing tennis and traveling. I am forever grateful to our teacher Robina Donnelly for reviving tennis at Nasau Park and getting me hooked. I was one of those tennis “crazies” playing everyday after school instead of doing homework. Today I still play competitively with the 30-40yr. olds; and it is about achieving balance. You want to handle the ups and downs of tennis (and life) with maturity. You want to feel the joy of a game well played and of a life well lived.
As for traveling, the essence is new horizons, adventure, resurgence of health, taste of different foods, and regaining the vigour and curiosity of youth. I believe that travel gently pushes us to be “better people”, making us shake hands with our neighbours, listen to ourselves (and God’s teachings), respect history, and try to live surrounded by nature and beauty.
