Determination and hard work led the way for Filimoni Yaya to the world’s biggest humanitarian body, the United Nations.
Each time work got hard, Mr Yaya allowed himself some time off by visiting places that were calm and peaceful.
The 33-year-old believes seeing new landscapes in Fiji is therapeutic.
Mr Yaya is the head of Experiment at the Accelerator Lab, a project under the United Nations Development Programme, based in Suva.
He consequently works as a Geographic Information System (GIS) and data specialist at the World Bank Prior to joining the two organisations, he worked for the International Union for Conservation of Nature and The Pacific Community.
He is also a guest speaker/lecturer at the University of the South Pacific.
Mr Yaya is from the village of Nakoroyawa, in Nakasaleka, Kadavu.
Where In Fiji Would You Take Visitors To?
Kabara, Lau.
It has unspoiled natural beauty and a rich reef system.
A beachfront on Kabara Island in the Lau group. source: www.seabedsfiji.com/cruises/lau-kadavu-discovery-cruise-11-nights/
What Is Your Favorite Place For Food, Coffee And Pie?
Dolphin Plaza.
The rourou pie at a restaurant there is my absolute favourite.
What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?
Under the ivi (Fiji chestnut) tree near our pond at home in Verata, Tailevu.
It is a peaceful spot with goldfish in the pond, and enjoy the shade and cool breeze which makes it more serene.
What Are Some Places In Fiji That Are On Your Bucket List?
Yasawa.
I have seen pictures of its amazing landscape.
I would also like to visit Seventh Heaven and Cloud 9.
Seventh Heaven Fiji. Photo: Nicolette Chambers
Story by: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj