Vasiti Soko is a Fijian geographic information system (GIS) specialist and the Director of the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) of Fiji.
Mrs Soko has seen the worst of cyclones but the 37-year-old Natokalau, Matuku, Lau native believes that resilience always wins.
She was the recipient of the inaugural Women’s International Network for Disaster Risk Reduction (WIN DRR) Leadership Award in October 2021, from the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Re-duction (UNDRR).
Since she was appointed director in 2019, Ms Soko coordinated Fiji’s response to seven tropical cyclones and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms Soko has worked to ensure effective inter-cluster coordination with a focus on resource mobilisation, leadership, reporting, information sharing, and inclusion of vulnerable groups.
Raising the bar in her field particularly in her role will enable women to achieve anything despite their gender.
How Many Places Have You Visited Around Fiji?
I have travelled to most parts of the country, I have gone as far as Ono-i-Lau, Kadavu, Levuka , interior of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu.
A beach front on the Island of Kadavu. Source: https://melandmary.wordpress.com/2015/09/14/field-trip-to-nadarivatu-fiji/
What Is One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To?
Natokalu Matuku in Lau to witness the simplicity and way of life we have in the village.
My Village is mostly surrounded by rocks.
The story behind these rocks and our struggles of visionary elders to the place of the village at this current site is extraordinary.
I urge every Fijian to come visit my beautiful home to listen first-hand to the inspiring stories of our elders.
What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee Or Pie?
Farmers Daughter Pie: Certainly pies from Hot –bread Kitchen
What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains In Your Bucket List?
Bouma Waterfall in Taveuni is a must do trip before I turn 40.
Bouma Waterfall in Taveuni Island.
Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj