Sixteen outstanding Fijians have bestowed honors during the Investiture Ceremony for the 2017/2018 Honours Roll this morning at the State House.

His Excellency the President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote congratulated the recipients for their achievements and reminded them that this should be a proud occasion not only for themselves but also for their families and friends.

20-year-old Emosi Delaibatiki was the youngest on the Honours List – awarded with a Bravery Medal.

“It’s not in my dream to receive this kind of awards. I want to thank my cousin, he’s the one to nominate me.”

At the age of seventeen, Emosi faced the worst of Tropical Cyclone Winston as it tore through Koro – but instead of running for cover, he helped save his mother, two sisters, and his grandmother.
He then ran out into the raging storm to help other villagers.

“Many people needed help, they couldn’t run so I ran to them and helped them to the evacuation center.”

Meanwhile, President Jioji Konousi Konrote says it is important to acknowledge Fijians’ achievements.

“Today is another opportunity to celebrate the distinguished and eminent services, and the bravery of our fellow Fijians, and our friends from abroad, for their selfless contributions to our beloved nation. “This Investiture Ceremony is another testament of the Government’s commitment to ensure that the Culture of Appreciation and its recognition of individual’s selfless contributions to nation building continues to be acknowledged and justly rewarded.”

Former New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully has been awarded the Companion of the Order of Fiji. Nine Fijians have been awarded the Medal of the Order of Fiji.