For Makereta Sau Lomavatu, the newly appointed Acting Head of Campus at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) Koronivia Campus, leadership is not about authority, it is about serving others, building relationships and creating opportunities for students and staff to thrive.

Being the first woman to be chosen for the role from CAFF, Ms Lomavatu brings more than a decade of experience in forestry, a deep commitment to education, a wealth of professional knowledge and a people-centred leadership style.

Originally from Naivuruvuru, Verata, Tailevu, and raised in Naloto, Verata, she is the eldest of five siblings and has maternal links to Vatukarasa, Taivugalei, Tailevu.

Ms Lomavatu attended Nailagotabua Primary School before continuing her education at Suva Grammar School. She later completed a Diploma in Tropical Forestry, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Forestry, and is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Science and Management.

Ms Lomavatu joined FNU as an attaché in 2013, before beginning her career as a Forestry Technician with the Department of Forestry in 2015, a position she continues to hold.

Reflecting on her appointment as the Acting Head of Campus, Ms Lomavatu described it as both an honour and a responsibility.

“This appointment is both a great honour and a significant responsibility for me. It is rewarding to be entrusted with a role, where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of students, staff and the wider community. I see this role not only as a leadership position, but also as an opportunity to serve,” she said.

Ms Lomavatu is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive campus culture, while strengthening academic excellence, encouraging innovation and ensuring the College continues to meet the needs of its students and communities.

“I value open communication and building positive relationships with students, staff and our communities. I also enjoy looking ahead, identifying opportunities for growth and working collaboratively to achieve long-term goals for the campus.”

“Integrity is the foundation of my leadership. I believe in being honest, transparent and accountable in all decisions and actions. Every student, staff member and stakeholder deserves to be heard, valued and treated with dignity,” she said.

As Acting Head of Campus, Ms Lomavatu’s immediate priorities include, engaging with staff and students to better understand their needs, strengthening teaching and learning, enhancing communication across the campus and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.

She hopes her leadership will create a campus where people feel supported and inspired to succeed. With agriculture, fisheries and forestry close to her heart, Ms Lomavatu recognising the College’s critical role in Fiji’s national development.

“These sectors are essential to food security, environmental sustainability and economic development. The College has a responsibility to produce graduates who are equipped with the knowledge, skills and practical experience to address real-world challenges,” Ms Lomavatu stated.

She also believes research and innovation will play an increasingly important role in developing climate-resilient agriculture, promoting sustainable fisheries and advancing responsible forestry practices across Fiji and the Pacific.

Ms Lomavatu’s advice to students considering careers in these industries is simple: – “view these fields as industries of opportunity, innovation and impact. They are essential to the future of our communities and offer rewarding careers where you can make a real difference.”

One of the greatest lessons she has learned throughout her career is that leadership begins with listening. She strongly believes that leadership is not defined by position or authority, but by the ability to listen, learn and serve others.

“Taking time to understand people often lead to stronger decisions and better outcomes,” Ms Lomavatu stated.

Outside of work, Ms Lomavatu enjoys spending time with her family, serving in the choir and as a Sunday School teacher at Koronivia Methodist Church. She also finds joy tending to her backyard garden and, whenever she visits her village, fishing for saltwater mussels or working on the family farm.

Interestingly, before pursuing a career in forestry, she aspired to become an air hostess because of her passion for customer service.

Inspired by the quote, “Action Speaks Louder than Words” by Clive Cussler, Ms Lomavatu hopes to lead through actions rather than words.

Looking ahead, her vision is to enhance campus infrastructure, improve learning environments and strengthen digital capacity, while building a positive workplace culture that values teamwork, continuous improvement and wellbeing.

“As we move forward, my message is one of shared purpose and commitment. Together, we can build on the College’s strong foundation and continue to advance excellence in agriculture, fisheries and forestry for the benefit of Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” she said.

Ms Lomavatu describes herself as approachable, collaborative and forward-thinking, and her leadership is guided by integrity, respect, collaboration, excellence and service. She believes the best outcomes are achieved, when people work together and share a common vision.

Dean of CAFF, Associate Professor Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa, said Ms Lomavatu’s appointment is a testament to perseverance.

“It reminds us that with hard work, commitment and a clear vision, barriers can be overcome and opportunities can be created. Her journey serves as an inspiration to our students, staff and aspiring leaders, particularly women, to pursue excellence and lead with confidence, integrity and purpose,” Dr Ravuiwasa said.

“Ms Lomavatu’s appointment reflects the College’s commitment to recognising merit, nurturing talent and fostering inclusive leadership that strengthens our institution and the communities we serve.”