Introducing the members of Fiji’s FIRST EVER FEMALE BAND, MARAMA. Being Fiji’s first-ever female band is a groundbreaking achievement that marks a significant milestone in the nation’s musical history. It represents not only a triumph for gender equality but also a vibrant shift in the cultural landscape of Fiji. As trailblazers, these pioneering women are not just adding their voices to the mix but reshaping the narrative around women in music in the Pacific Islands. Their presence challenges traditional norms and inspires a new generation of female artists, demonstrating that talent and passion know no gender boundaries. Their success is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of breaking barriers and celebrating diversity in every corner of the world.
Elaine Gock, bassist for Fiji’s first all-female band Marama 🌺, began her musical journey in Nadi, where she grew up with her three brothers and a rich blend of cultural influences. Her father, who managed the Hotshotz band in the late 90s and early 2000s, and her mother from Navatu, Nakorotubu, Ra, played significant roles in her early exposure to music 🤍 Weekends spent at Hotshotz’s performances sparked her passion for music 🎼 Elaine started playing bass guitar in church and later joined bands like Take6, Fiji Fusion, and Powerplay 🎸 A memorable moment in her career was performing in front of George “Fiji” Veikoso, whose praise boosted her confidence 🤍 Her music blends RnB, Pop, Disco, Reggae, and Hip-Hop, influenced by artists like Bruno Mars and Aretha Franklin 🌿 After a break due to COVID-19, she’s excited to return to the stage with Marama at the Miss Hibiscus 2024 on September 6th 🤍 Beyond music, Elaine enjoys movies, cooking, and spending time with family and friends 🤍 She dreams of performing on larger stages and becoming a leading female bassist in Fiji and the Pacific 🌺 She is also learning Cantonese to connect with her heritage 🤍 Elaine’s message to her fans: “Work hard and never give up on your dreams. Always be kind.”
Lead guitarist Sokula Tikoisuva, better known by her stage name KULA 🌺, hails from the serene island of Wakaya and has deep musical roots linked to Vanua Balavu and Levuka, Ovalau. As the youngest of six siblings, Kula’s love for music began early, singing in church with her sister Tee 🤍 Her journey started with a guitar gift from new neighbors, and despite being a left-handed player with no formal instruction, she taught herself using video tapes of The Eagles, which shaped her distinctive sound 🌺 Kula’s breakthrough came in 2008 at the Hibiscus Festival, leading to her first solo performance at the Radisson Blu Resort in Denarau. Since then, she has performed at top hotels in Fiji, including those in Denarau and the Coral Coast. Influenced by legends like The Eagles, ACDC, Bob Marley, and others, Kula blends R&B, jazz, reggae, and rock in her performances. As a member of the all-female band Marama, she also performs solo and duo gigs at the Intercontinental Hotel in Natadola and Crowne Plaza in Wailoaloa, Nadi. Kula is set to perform at Miss Hibiscus 2024 on September 6th, and her unique approach to playing guitar upside down as a leftie adds to her distinctiveness. Offstage, she enjoys volleyball and aspires to perform on larger international stages, sharing the message: “Be passionate about your talent and always stay humble.
Naomi Kaloumaira, from Uluibau, Moturiki in Lomaiviti 🌿 and with roots in Vutia, Rewa 🦀, has been deeply influenced by her family’s rich musical background 🤍 Surrounded by musically talented relatives, her love for music flourished from an early age through church performances and home influences ✨ Passionate about R&B, Naomi has made a name for herself as a dynamic member of the all-female band Marama, embodying the spirit of Theodore Roosevelt’s quote, “Believe you can, and you’re halfway there” 🫶 Her musical career gained momentum with the release of her debut track, “Nomu Yali,” and collaborations with notable local artists and producers 🤍 Influenced by Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, and Beyoncé, while also enjoying music from Taylor Swift, Zayn, and Katy Perry. Beyond music, Naomi enjoys freestyle drawing, swimming, and volleyball, and is pursuing a degree in Tourism Management at the University of the South Pacific. She has a quirky love for pineapple on pizza and offers this inspiring message to her fans: “In the famous words of Maya Angelou, ‘Do the best that you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.’ We’re all on a journey of learning and growth. Keep going, keep growing, and remember, you’re doing great!”
Meet Marilyn Joy Tavi Mataiasi 🌺, who has been surrounded by music from a young age thanks to her retired musician parents and a rich multicultural heritage—her father from PNG and Rotuma, and her mother from Vanua Levu, Macuata, Druadrua, and Tahiti 🤍 Growing up in this vibrant musical environment, Marilyn began captivating audiences at hotels and various venues by the age of 10. Guided by her personal motto, “Discipline equals freedom,” inspired by Jocko Willink, Marilyn approaches both music and life with dedication 🫶 Her diverse musical influences reflect her broad love for all genres, without favoring any particular style 🤍 Currently in her final semester of Law at the University of Fiji, she balances her studies with her musical pursuits. Marilyn’s future goals include obtaining her law degree and license, pursuing a master’s degree, advancing her music career, and exploring real estate investments 🤍 Known for her eagerness to learn and expand her horizons, she is thrilled to join MARAMA, Fiji’s first all-female band, for a performance at the Miss Hibiscus Festival on September 6, 2024 ❗ Her inspiring message to fans is: “Discipline beats talent any day.”
Born and raised in Suva city, Teagan Fong embodies a vibrant blend of passion, talent, and dedication. She is from a musically rich family. Teagan was naturally drawn to music, picking up her first guitar at age 8 and diving into it seriously by her early 20’s. After teaching herself drums at 18, she made a splash by winning the Battle of the Bands in Suva in 2008. Although she stepped away from music to focus on academics and work, her love for drumming endured. Now, thanks to MARAMA, that reignited her passion, Teagan is back behind the drums after a 12-year hiatus. Her diverse influences include R&B, hip hop, reggae, and rock, with her energetic style shaped by jamming to Red Hot Chili Peppers and other rock legends. Outside of music, Teagan enjoys films, traveling, and swimming, and she manages The Sun Fryer Tasty Fish & Chix, adding a unique twist to her story. Looking ahead, she aspires to continue with Marama, perform at the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, and pursue a master’s degree in business. Her message to fans is: “Support local artists—even if their music isn’t your usual jam. Fiji is brimming with talent in music, dance, and the arts. With your support, we can elevate Fiji’s creative talents to the global stage. The dream and potential are here—let’s make it happen!”
Adi Vasiti Nakautoga 🌺, known as “DeeVa” on stage, is making a significant impact in the Fijian music scene with her debut single “SUVA” featuring WILO 🌺 She’s from Yasawa and grew up in Tavua, Lautoka, and Suva. DeeVa’s music is deeply rooted in her Fijian heritage and faith 🤍 Her musical journey began at home and church, with her passion further fueled by jamming with friends around the tanoa. She is featured on “Suva,” a lead track on the Adi Senitoa album, written and directed by K U K I and performed with Wilo Usuramo. Her style combines laid-back lounge music with influences from Ed Sheeran, Billie Eilish, and Frank Sinatra, though she enjoys exploring various genres. Outside music, DeeVa is a dedicated mother and part-time Maths tutor, with aspirations to continue making music and traveling.
