Iosefo Nayagodamu’s journey is one of vision, resilience, and heart. Originally from the picturesque village of Bouma on Taveuni Island, he moved to the United States in search of new opportunities—but he never forgot where he came from.

Like many who leave their homeland in pursuit of a better life, Iosefo carried with him not only hopes for personal success but also a deep concern for the struggles of his people back home. He had seen first-hand the challenges of poverty, limited access to resources, and the need for sustainable solutions in Fijian communities.

Determined to make a difference, Iosefo took a bold step.

He combined his entrepreneurial spirit with his cultural roots and opened the Pasifica Islanders Kava Bar in San Francisco.

"This wasn’t just another business—it was a mission-driven space designed to bring Pacific Islanders together. The bar became a place for connection, dialogue, and purpose—a modern-day meeting ground where islanders abroad could discuss business ideas, plan community projects, and explore ways to support their homelands," he said.

At the heart of Iosefo’s mission is a deep belief in the power of agriculture to change lives and shape futures. He often shares this message with the communities he visits:

“If a family can support a child by planting five yaqona plants a week, imagine what that child will earn in six years’ time. I urge landowners to invest in their children’s future through farming.”

This simple yet powerful idea speaks to his commitment to generational empowerment—encouraging families to see farming not just as a livelihood, but as an investment in their children’s future.

Through this venture, Iosefo has created more than just a successful enterprise. He’s built a movement—one that empowers the Pacific diaspora to become agents of change.

As part of his continued efforts to give back to Fiji, Iosefo met today with the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, alongside Principal Agricultural Officer (Central) Mr. Adriano Tabualevu and Principal Agricultural Officer (Eastern) Mr. Nimilote Waqabaca.

Earlier this year, Hon. Tunabuna had led a delegation including the two senior officials to the United States on a fact-finding mission to explore kava markets and assess export opportunities for Fiji.

Their visit provided valuable insights into the growing international demand for kava and highlighted the vital role that diaspora-led businesses such as Pasifica Islanders Kava Bar can play in connecting Fijian producers to global markets.

Today, they discussed on exploring opportunities to support market access in the United States for our local farmers and fishers.

"I want to create pathways that will allow Fijian agricultural and fisheries products to reach new markets abroad—offering farmers here at home greater income opportunities and long-term sustainability."

Honourable Tunabuna thanked Iosefo for his continued dedication in giving back to his home country and for using his platform abroad to uplift Fijian communities.

He acknowledged the importance of diaspora-led initiatives like Iosefo’s, which not only promote cultural identity but also create tangible economic opportunities for farmers and grassroots families.

This engagement reflects his growing role as a connector between communities at home and abroad. It also reinforces his belief that economic empowerment must begin at the grassroots level, through collaboration and shared vision.

Today, Iosefo continues to advocate for teaching children at a young age to start investing in yaqona farming.

Pacific unity, economic development, and cultural pride. His success is not just measured in profit, but in impact—a true testament to the Fijian spirit of resilience, generosity, and love for community.

ENDS

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