Ruveni Tuimavana, Massey University

Ruveni’s research topic: Exploring iTaukei resettlement in Fiji: The relationality of migration

Ruveni’s study explores migrant villagers who have lived and sustained their livelihoods on other Indigenous communities’ ancestral lands for generations. Despite being marginalised by colonial and development agency policies that adopt a highly homogenised view of village dwellers, local vanua mechanisms continue to support and provide platforms for migrant villagers to participate in economic, social, and traditional responsibilities that sustain their livelihoods. These forms of participation contribute to fostering social cohesion within the host communities that have adopted these villagers over generations. The cultural nuances embedded in these relationships offer alternative, sustainable, and organic ways of living that align with traditional practices.

“The fieldwork phase of this study was made possible through the generous funding of DevNet and MFAT. Travelling to the three rural sites on the island of Vanua Levu was challenging; however, the funding enabled me to visit all three village sites during the five months I spent in Fiji. I am also grateful for the support of my supervisors, Professor Glenn Banks and Professor John Overton, for their guidance and encouragement throughout the research process.”

Ruveni Tuimavana, PhD Student in Development Studies, Massey University.