In a challenging voyage across the Pacific Ocean, sail master Ivanancy Vunikura led the Uto ni Yalo from Fiji to Tonga, battling intense winds and waves. The traditional yet modern boat arrived in Tonga just in time for the Pacific Island Forum leaders summit, symbolizing unity among the region’s countries. Vunikura, the first Fijian woman to serve as a sail master on the vessel, hopes to inspire more women to pursue sailing.
Despite facing doubts from some male colleagues, Vunikura proved her skills and earned their respect during the journey. The crew fondly called her “Mama Uto” and were impressed by her navigation abilities and leadership. Vunikura, who has been sailing for over a decade, has a passion for the ocean and values passing down Indigenous knowledge of navigation and voyaging.
Now in Tonga, the crew will launch a project to share traditional boating skills with local communities and promote sustainable navigation between islands. Vunikura hopes to encourage more women to join the field of sailing and continue the legacy of Indigenous seafaring knowledge. As they prepare for the journey back to Fiji, the crew reflects on the challenges, the beauty of the ocean, and the importance of preserving traditional navigation techniques.
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