Roisin Gallagher - Volunteer in Fiji

"An experience that will challenge you, teach you loads, and leave you with memories and friendships that last forever."

Memorable Moments

Going to Draiba Village in Fiji was honestly one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. From the moment we arrived, it felt like something out of a film all the children ran towards us with the biggest smiles on their faces, shouting and laughing as they welcomed us. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, but the energy of the kids made all of that disappear straight away.

One of the best parts of the trip was how close our team became. We did loads of bonding activities right from the start, which really helped everyone open up. The ice-breaker games were always a laugh especially the ones where we had to dance or move around like animals to wake ourselves up in the mornings. It might’ve felt silly at first, but it brought us all closer together and made the early starts much easier!

The bus journey up to Navosa was another big highlight. It was a long drive through the most amazing scenery lush green mountains, it’s hard to put into words just how amazing it was, tiny villages, and so much open space. We spent the time chatting, singing, and playing games. Even though we were just sitting on a bus, it felt like an adventure in itself.

Our days were packed with all sorts of activities – some focused on volunteering, others on learning about Fijian life and culture. The daily programmes were fun and really well organised. I especially loved the energisers and games we did every morning to get moving there was always music and dancing involved, which made everything feel so upbeat and positive.

We also had plenty of fun outside of the village. We went on daily trips to the river where we’d swim, sunbathe, or just hang out together. The adventures to the local caves and waterfalls were amazing too proper postcard worthy places that I’ll never forget. And I can’t not mention the billy billy rafting races! We built our own rafts and raced each other down the river it was chaotic, hilarious, and probably one of the most fun things we did the whole trip.

Deep Dive: Culture

One thing that especially stood out to me was the Fijian culture and how incredibly kind and welcoming everyone was. Our host families treated us like one of their own always making sure we were comfortable, fed, and happy. They allowed us to discover the traditional Fijian ways of life through culture courses throughout the project. We ate traditional fijian style food. This was very different to Ireland we tried many different types of crops and Fijian foods and embraced the cultural as a whole through wearing their clothes and learning the language.  Clothes were also very different to home as the girls had their knees and shoulders covered at all times and the boys wore sulus or pocket sulus which looked like skirts. Sitting around with the Fijians in the evenings, hearing their stories and sharing ours, made me realise just how special this whole experience was. They gave us a true insight into what it means to live with simplicity, gratitude, and joy.

Pushing Through Challenges

Some challenges were definitely a part of the experience. The food was very different from what I was used to, and it definitely took some getting used to. Most meals were quite basic, and there wasn’t much variety lots of root vegetables, rice, and sometimes fish. It wasn’t always easy, especially if you’re a picky eater, but trying new food was part of the experience.
The weather was also intense. Some days were extremely hot and humid, and when it rained that one time we were there, it really rained and it was great!!!
Sleeping on the floor in our host family homes was another adjustment. We had thin mats or mattresses, and it wasn’t the most comfortable, especially after long days of activities. But over time, we all got used to it, and it honestly made me appreciate my bed back home so much more.

One of the bigger challenges was the language barrier. While most people in the village spoke some English, there were definitely moments where communication was tricky. But we found ways to connect  through smiles, body language, and laughter. Often sometimes repeating Fijian words back to them was a way of us trying to show some understanding which went down a treat making them laugh. The kids were amazing at teaching us Fijian words, and we even learned a few phrases to get by (I found myself still speaking the language going through Dublin airport when I had landed home).

Making friends

Making friends was definitely not something I struggled with. I went over by myself not knowing anyone and it was probably the best thing I did. It gave me that extra push to get to know everyone individually which I can happily say I made friends that will last a lifetime.

Journey Highlights

One of the absolute highlights was riding in the carrier truck for the school runs. Standing in the back with everyone, wind in your hair, music playing, and views of the mountains all around it was such a fun and unique way to travel. We also got to swim in beautiful rivers, trek to local caves and waterfalls, and took part in billy billy rafting races down the river, Dancing with the kids, joining in on village games, learning Fijian songs, and getting involved in traditional ceremonies also made the experience feel so authentic and special.

Tips for You

If you're planning to volunteer in Fiji, especially somewhere like Draiba Village, my biggest advice is to go with an open mind and be ready to step out of your comfort zone. Things like the food, sleeping on the floor, the hot and humid weather, and the language barrier can be a bit of a shock at first, but you honestly get used to it, and those challenges end up being a big part of what makes the experience so meaningful. Pack sensibly, stay hydrated, and bring something comfortable to sleep on. A filter water bottle, mosquito spray and a mosquito net is a MUST!! Try to learn a few Fijian words even just the basics because it really helps build connections, especially with the kids. Most importantly, throw yourself into everything. Say yes to the dancing, the games, the energisers, the river adventures, those are the moments you’ll remember the most. Be respectful, stay open to the culture, and appreciate the simple things.