Miliakere Dinawa

When Miliakere Dinawa chose to pursue a career in animal health, she never imagined
that her journey would lead her to becoming a pioneer in a field that was still developing in Fiji.

Today, Miss Dinawa is Fiji’s first local graduate with a Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing and serves as the
Head Technician and Clinical Technician for Veterinary Science at the Fiji National University’s College
of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF). Through her work, she continues to support veterinary
education, practical training and the development of future animal health professionals in Fiji.

Her journey is one of determination, resilience and a deep passion for making a difference in a field
that plays an important role in supporting Fiji’s communities, agriculture sector and animal welfare.

At CAFF, women are not only participating in agriculture and animal health, but they are also leading
the way. Women currently hold 60 per cent of leadership positions within the College, contributing
significantly to education, research, innovation and professional practice across Fiji’s agricultural
landscape.

Among these inspiring women is Miss Dinawa, whose story reflects the power of education,
perseverance and the courage to pursue new opportunities.

Hailing from Lakeba Village in Saqani, with maternal links to Dawara Village in Wailevu West, Vanua
Levu, Miss Dinawa grew up with strong values of hard work, service and the importance of education.
Her academic journey began at DAV Girls Secondary School before she continued her studies at Jai
Narayan College.

Miliakere Dinawa with technicians at Naiyaca Campus in Labasa

Her passion for animals and interest in improving animal welfare led her to pursue studies at CAFF,
where she completed a Diploma in Animal Health. This became the foundation for a career that would
later see her break new ground in Fiji’s animal health sector.

Driven by the desire to expand her knowledge and contribute more meaningfully to the profession,
Miss Dinawa pursued a Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing at Unitec Institute of Technology in Auckland,
New Zealand.

Miliakere Dinawa in New Zealand

Her graduation marked a historic achievement, making her Fiji’s first local graduate in this specialised
field. Beyond being a personal milestone, her achievement contributed to strengthening the
recognition and development of veterinary nursing as an important area within animal healthcare in
Fiji.

After completing her studies, Miss Dinawa returned home with specialised knowledge and skills, ready
to contribute to the growth of animal health education in Fiji.

She joined the Fiji National University and has now dedicated 11 years of service to the institution. In
her role as Head Technician and Clinical Technician for Veterinary and Animal Science, she supports
practical classes in the laboratory and in the field, assists with veterinary clinical activities, manages
practical requirements and helps create effective learning environments where students can develop
their skills and confidence.

She leads CAFF’s technicians across all the FNU Campuses. Managing a team spread across multiple
locations comes with its challenges, but through strong leadership, effective communication, and
teamwork, she ensures they work collaboratively to successfully deliver every task entrusted to them.
For Miss Dinawa, her work is not simply about technical expertise, it is about supporting students and
helping shape professionals who will contribute to Fiji’s animal health sector.

Beyond her responsibilities at the University, she continues to serve the wider community through
her involvement in animal welfare initiatives, including volunteering in animal desexing campaigns
and supporting efforts to promote responsible animal care.

For Miss Dinawa, veterinary science is more than a career; it is a way of serving others.
“Being able to support students and contribute to the growth of animal health education in Fiji is
something I value deeply. Every challenge has been an opportunity to learn, grow and become better
at what I do,” she said.

“Apart from my operational responsibilities, I also value collegiality by actively supporting College
events and initiatives. One of the major projects I am currently leading is the Technician Initiative
under the CAFF Living Laboratory.”

Her journey is a reminder that success is built through passion, commitment and the willingness to
embrace opportunities. It is also a source of inspiration for young Fijians, especially young women,
who aspire to pursue careers in science, agriculture and animal health.

As CAFF continues to champion women’s leadership and professional advancement, stories like Miss
Dinawa’s highlight the important role women play in shaping Fiji’s future through knowledge,
innovation, compassion and service.