The Chief Executive Officer Ms Sharyne Fong;
Leadership Fiji Secretariat Officials; and
2024 Leadership Fiji Cohort.
Ara na Yadra and a Victorious Afternoon to you all.
At the outset, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Leadership Fiji Secretariat for the privilege of addressing the 2024 Leadership Fiji Cohort. I am truly honored to speak before such an accomplished and dynamic group, each of you already making significant strides in your respective fields.
Your participation in this program is a testament to your commitment to personal and professional growth, and it speaks volumes about the future leadership of our nation. Fiji’s progress depends on individuals like you—leaders who are not only skilled but also driven by a shared purpose to uplift our communities and inspire positive change.
In my role as the Supervisor of Elections, I have the unique responsibility of wearing multiple hats. I am the Registrar of Political Parties, the Registrar of Voters, and the Secretary to the Electoral Commission of Fiji. Each of these roles demands a different approach, a distinct mindset, and a specific set of skills. From ensuring the integrity of our electoral processes to safeguarding the rights of every eligible voter, my work requires unwavering dedication to transparency, fairness, and public service.
But beyond these professional roles, I am also a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and aunt. These personal roles have been instrumental in shaping my leadership journey, teaching me the value of empathy, balance, and resilience. It is this blend of professional and personal experiences that informs my approach to leadership—an approach that prioritizes people, principles, and progress.
Today, I want to share with you two guiding principles that have been central to my leadership philosophy. The first is a conviction that ‘We are called to transform, not to conform.’ At the Fijian Elections Office, this means continuously pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, challenging outdated norms, and embracing innovation to better serve the people of Fiji. This principle is essential for any leader—it compels us to think critically and creatively, to seek out new solutions, and to drive meaningful change.
The second principle is rooted in the understanding that ‘In life, we are either about to go into a storm, in a storm or coming out of a storm. What matters most is how we endure the storms.’ Leadership is not about avoiding challenges but about confronting them with resilience, courage, and determination. The storms we face, whether in our personal lives or professional careers, are opportunities to grow, to learn, and to emerge stronger. As leaders, our ability to navigate these challenges with grace and resolve defines our effectiveness and our legacy.
When I assumed leadership of the FEO, I inherited an organization that was often perceived as one that incited fear and burned bridges. I recognized the urgent need to change that narrative. In November 2023, while still in my acting capacity, the FEO launched our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. This plan reflects our commitment to rebuilding trust, fostering collaboration, and strengthening relationships with our stakeholders.
We know that the success of our electoral processes depends on these partnerships—whether with political parties, civil society, the media, or the public. Transparency, dialogue, and mutual respect are at the heart of our efforts.
I believe this spirit of collaboration is vital for any leader. It is through working together, valuing diverse perspectives, and finding common ground that we achieve the greatest impact. As you continue your leadership journey, I encourage you to embrace this collaborative mindset. Build bridges, not walls. Seek to understand before being understood. And always remember that our collective strength lies in our shared purpose.
Leadership is never without its challenges. I have had to navigate complex political landscapes, manage diverse expectations, and address misinformation that threatens to undermine public trust. What has sustained me through these challenges is a clear vision, a strong sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to my core values. For me, these non-negotiables are my faith in God and my family. These are the anchors that ground me, providing strength and perspective, especially during the most trying times.
Since my appointment as Acting Supervisor of Elections on 26 January, my faith has been my source of resilience, allowing me to face challenges with clarity and courage. My family has been my constant support, reminding me that while I am replaceable in my professional role, I am irreplaceable to them. I urge you to identify and hold fast to your own non-negotiables. They will guide you, sustain you, and help you lead with authenticity and integrity.
As leaders, it is the simple things that often keep us going. Living a well-rounded life, staying grounded in your values, and recognizing that every challenge is an opportunity for growth—these are the keys to enduring success. Remember, storms will come and go, but it is how we respond to them that defines us as leaders.
As we look to the future, I have no doubt that each of you will contribute significantly to the continued development of our nation. Your participation in this program is more than just a step in your career—it is a commitment to leading with purpose, driving positive change, and building a stronger, more resilient Fiji.
I encourage you to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the common good. Our nation’s future is in the hands of leaders like you—leaders who are willing to step up, face challenges head-on, and inspire others to join in the work of building a better Fiji.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share these thoughts with you today. I am excited to engage further and hear your insights on how we can continue to strengthen our leadership and our nation. Let us seize this moment to learn from each other and to craft a vision for Fiji that is inclusive, just, and prosperous for all. I now open the floor for questions, and I look forward to more informal conversations with you.
Thank You, Vinaka Vakalevu.
