Cast and crew of ADI.
A story born in Fiji, told in the iTaukei language, and brought to life by an entirely local cast and crew, has earned international recognition, with Fiji National University (FNU) Assistant Instructor Ms Adi Tulia Nacola receiving the 2026 Kimo Breakthrough Film of the Year Award in New York City for her debut feature film, ADI.
For Ms Nacola, the award is a proud moment. It shows that Fijian stories, told in our own language, can reach audiences around the world.
The 70-minute film follows two siblings from a chiefly family, as their lives change and the choices of one shape the future of the other. Through their journey, ADI explores courage, leadership, loyalty to the people and love.
Ms Nacola said the idea for the film came from a simple desire: to see more Pacific and iTaukei stories on the big screen.
“I wanted to make a film for the people of Fiji. I saw that there was a lack of Pacific stories, and our own iTaukei stories on the big screens. I wanted to make a film that would create pride in our language, our people, and our land. Our identity is important, and we need to keep telling and sharing our stories,” she said.
Bringing the story to the screen was no easy task. The film took 11 months to develop and complete, but production itself lasted only six days because of a limited budget. Ms Nacola said the short filming schedule meant every day had to count, with careful preparation and rehearsals before the cameras rolled.
Cast and Crew on location shoot.
The production brought together emerging filmmakers, first-time actors and experienced professionals, all from Fiji. Many of the cast and several crew members had never worked on a professional film set before. Ms Nacola said that meant everyone had to learn quickly and work closely together.
“The crew would meet every morning to discuss the day’s schedule and plans. If there were changes, these were also discussed so that everyone knew what their roles were,” she explained.
For Ms Nacola, the experience also highlighted the need to give more young people opportunities to learn the craft. She believes universities and film schools can play an important role by giving students the knowledge and practical foundation needed to enter the industry. The film stars Salote Malani as Adi, Napolioni Koro Ravai as Ratu, and Tarusila Sowakula as Vere. All three were first-time performers, while some members of the cast were students from FNU’s 2025 Film and Television programme at the Nasinu Campus.
Finding the right cast was another challenge. Auditions were held over two days, with fluency in the Ra dialect an important requirement because it is the language used throughout the film. Ms Nacola said the process eventually brought together people with the right skills, commitment and passion to tell the story.
Film Crew (L-R) Lanza Coffin, Brosnan Erbsleben, Adi Tulia Nacola.
She hopes the film’s international recognition will encourage more opportunities for Fijian filmmakers and help build a stronger creative arts industry.
“I know we have worked hard and proved that local talent and local filmmakers can create great films,” she added.
Ms Nacola is also calling for greater support from Government, universities and industry professionals to help develop Fiji’s film and creative sectors.
For FNU, the achievement also highlights the value of its Creative Arts programmes and the opportunities available to students who want to turn their creativity into a career.
Ms Nacola said the creative industries can offer a range of career pathways, but Fiji needs to continue investing in the skills and opportunities that will allow young people to pursue them.
For her, however, the most rewarding part of ADI is seeing young people connect with their language, traditions and culture.
She further stated that she felt both fulfilled and relieved to see the film recognised, particularly as an iTaukei woman and filmmaker.
Cinematographer Lanza Coffin and Director Adi Tulia Nacola.
“For me personally, to be seen and recognised locally and internationally as an award-winning female iTaukei filmmaker is quite a remarkable feeling. It makes me want to create more for the people of Fiji and the Pacific,” Ms Nacola expressed.
Her message to young people considering a career in the creative arts is just as personal.
“I would encourage those who are interested in pursuing a career in the creative arts to give it their all. To believe in themselves and trust their instincts. It is a rewarding path because you’re creating your world as you go,” she reiterated.
The Acting Dean for CHEL, Dr Joseph Veramu congratulated Ms Nacola, and everyone involved in ADI on the achievement, and celebrates the film as a reminder that powerful stories can begin in Fiji, and find their place on the world stage.
“This is a milestone achievement for Ms Nacola, and FNU. It will inspire especially young people in Fiji, and the Pacific to engage in expressive arts for leisure, and gainful employment,” added Dr Veramu.
ENDS