Jone Draunimasi

What was your UNE qualification/s?

Bachelor of Agricultural Economics.

Online or on-campus study?

On Campus.

What was your reason for studying at UNE?

The Fijian Government sent me to study at UNE because the institution was well renowned in Agricultural Economics.

How was your experience with UNE lecturers?

The UNE lecturers were excellent in their delivery. They were not only highly qualified in their field but were also experienced and well known world-wide. For example, Professor John L Dillon, Professor Peter Drysdale, Professor Euan Flaming, Professor Jack Sinden, Professor John Brian Hardaker and Jack P Mackem.

Your current or previous job?

I am a Sessional Academic at the Coral Bell School, College of Asia and the Pacific, the Australian National University. I was a former diplomat, Charge de Affaires ad interim of Fiji to the UN New York (2003-2004), former Counsellor/ Deputy High Commissioner of Fiji to Australia (2009-2010).

The personal qualities needed to do your job?

The job required a great deal of thoroughness, timeliness, diplomatic tact while maintaining simplicity.

If you weren’t in this line of work, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

If I weren’t doing this job, I would be helping my fellow villagers of my island in Fiji to combat climate change and sea level rise.

Your advice for anyone interested in pursuing this type of career?

My advice to anyone who may wish to follow this career is to stay hungry for further work opportunities and never relent on further educational opportunities.

The biggest challenge and biggest achievement you’ve experienced in your work or life in general?

Representing Fiji to the United Nations and to Australia.

How has your UNE qualification aided you in your career?

My Agricultural Economics from UNE has helped me a lot in my career; I have gained experience and travelled the world because of my UNE qualification.

What inspires you inside work and outside work?

My family is most important, and they have been the source of my inspiration and support in and out of work.

Do you volunteer your time for a community project or organisation?

I spend most of my time in charity work, helping my island of origin, Druadrua, Fiji. The impact of annual tropical cyclones and climate change is presenting the biggest threat to my island.

Any plans for future study with UNE?

I am planning to do a course in community service if it is offered at UNE.

Anything else you would like to share?

I am pleased to share that my two sons the late Mr Jone Draunimasi Jnr (RIP) and Mr Sakiusa Draunimasi also studied Agricultural Economics at UNE. It has been a pleasant family tradition.