Alumni Spotlight: Dr Anawaite Matadradra-Dolavale

A passion for understanding the past and its impact on the present led Dr Anawaite Matadradra-Dolavale to embark on a remarkable academic journey at The University of the South Pacific (USP). Hailing from Fiji, Anawaite’s pursuit of knowledge has been a testament to perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and the power of education to transform lives. 

Anawaite’s academic journey at USP began in 2008 when she enrolled for her Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics. Little did she know that this would be the start of a 16-year relationship with the university, punctuated only by a brief pause in 2014 for the birth of her first child. “I just realised that I have never stopped learning,” Anawaite reflects, highlighting her commitment to lifelong education. 

Over the years, Anawaite’s academic achievements have been nothing short of impressive. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics, a Master of Arts in Development Studies, a Doctor of Philosophy in History, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching. Her dedication to her studies has been recognized through numerous scholarships and grants, including the Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship Fund (SYLFF), USP Pacific Scholarship for Excellence in Research & Innovation, Pacific Research Colloquium (ANU), BULA PhD Mobility Scholarship (NUS), and the DevNet Pacific Development Research Write-Up Grant. 

A pivotal moment in Anawaite’s journey was the completion of her doctoral thesis, titled “Melanesians on the Margins: A Comparative Study of Melanesian Communities in Fiji and Sāmoa.” This research not only contributed to the field of Pacific history but also reflected Anawaite’s deep interest in understanding the complexities of Melanesian communities in the region. 

Anawaite’s time at USP was more than just academic pursuits. She actively participated in Student Life (now known as CRU international), a campus ministry that fostered a sense of community among students. “This community was crucial in helping students navigate the challenges of university life while strengthening their faith,” Anawaite shares. It was also where she met her husband, who has been a pillar of support throughout her academic journey. 

While studying, Anawaite worked as a Student Assistant at the USP Student Academic Services centre, an experience she values for the opportunities it provided to interact with students from across the region and engage with diverse perspectives. This role continued even after her graduation, until she received a scholarship to pursue postgraduate studies and work as a Research Assistant in the Development Studies program under the mentorship of Professor Vijay Naidu. 

Anawaite’s journey from student to educator came full circle when she was offered a lecturer position within the School of Law and Social Sciences. “Being offered a Lecturer’s position was a surreal moment for me,” she recalls. This achievement was particularly poignant given her background. “Raised in an impoverished environment, life was a constant challenge, yet it taught me invaluable lessons,” Anawaite reflects. She credits her late father’s encouragement to reach the highest academic level as a driving force behind her perseverance. 

As a lecturer, Anawaite has embraced the opportunity to work closely with students from all over the region, providing mentoring support and bringing an approachable and friendly manner to her teaching. She particularly values the support of her colleagues in the School of Law and Social Sciences, especially those in the History Discipline, who have been instrumental in her growth as an educator. 

Anawaite’s academic journey has been shaped by many influential mentors at USP, including Professor Vijay Naidu, Dr Nicholas Halter, Associate Professor Morgan Tuimalealiifano, Associate Professor Sandra Tarte, Dr Max Quanchi, Professor Ian Campbell, the late Dr. Alumita Durutalo, and Dr. Gordon Nanau. “My encounters with some of USP’s finest academics and outstanding scholars of Oceania have substantially elevated my academic pathway,” she acknowledges. 

Looking to the future, Anawaite aims to continue writing and recording ways in which indigenous knowledge systems, cultures, and traditions can be incorporated into the Pacific history curriculum. She sees this as an important step in addressing challenges of representation, reading, and visualization in Pacific history. 

For Anawaite, being an alumnus of USP holds deep significance. “I am proud to be a part of one of only two regional universities in the world, a respected academic institution recognized for its calibre of research and education, and a diverse and friendly community,” she states. She values the connection to a regional network of accomplished individuals who share a common educational background and values as Pacific Islanders. 

Anawaite’s journey from a student with dreams of becoming a nurse to a respected historian and educator is a testament to the transformative power of education and the opportunities provided by USP. Her story serves as an inspiration to current and future students, demonstrating that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, one can achieve academic excellence and make meaningful contributions to their field and community.