Tailevu native, Adi Sovi Alena Tuinisautu, is the eldest of eight siblings and a first-year student pursuing a Certificate in Film and Television at the Fiji National University’s College of Humanities, Education and Law.

At 22, Adi Sovi’s life took an unexpected turn. She had always planned to become a teacher—but fate had a different path in store.
“I did not make the cut to become a teacher by just one mark! At first, I was a little upset, but the Academic Officer gave me a prospectus. The very first programme that caught my eye was Film and Television, and I instantly knew this was the one for me,” she shared with pride. “More than anything, I just wanted to be a student at FNU, so I knew this programme would help me achieve that dream.”

Her parents received her offer letter before she did, and their surprise quickly turned into concern.
“They knew my initial plan was to become a teacher and wondered if this programme would be supported under TSLS. Thankfully, I had done my research after applying and was able to assure them that it was sponsored, that gave them a sigh of relief.”
Choosing Film and Television meant breaking family tradition.

“Even my siblings were curious about why I made this choice,” Adi Sovi explained. “But when I told them I had made it onto the crew of an international production, Love Island, everyone became emotional and supportive. To achieve that in my first year at university was only possible because of the encouragement and guidance of my lecturers.”
Among her most treasured memories is a heartfelt moment on the set of Love Island.“I assisted contestant Huda Mustafa, who came in third on the show, with her wardrobe, and she called me an angel who had saved her day. I will cherish that moment forever.”

Adi Sovi draws inspiration from Losena Kaloulia Naisilisili, also known as the “Switch Queen”, and dreams of one day following in her footsteps.
“I want to encourage more i-Taukei women to venture into paths that are uncommon for us. Come and visit an FNU campus and discover a programme that will help you uncover your passion.” “They knew my initial plan was to become a teacher and wondered if this programme would be supported under TSLS. Thankfully, I had done my research after applying and was able to assure them that it was sponsored, which gave them a sigh of relief.”