31/05/2026
Congratulations Dr Anawaite
It is our pleasure to introduce our next Pacific Development Field Research Grant awardee — Anawaite Matadradra-Dolavale.
Ana is an emerging Pacific scholar based in the School of Law and Social Sciences at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji. She holds a Master of Arts in Development Studies and a PhD in History from the University of the South Pacific.
Ana's current research focuses on social cohesion, trust, and community life within informal settlements in Fiji. While research on informal settlements has often focused on relocation, housing, infrastructure, and environmental vulnerability, her work explores how people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds build relationships, support one another, and navigate everyday life within shared community spaces. The research also examines how migration, settlement experiences, displacement, and colonial legacies continue to shape community relationships and social cohesion today.
"I am truly grateful to DevNet NZ for awarding me this research grant and for supporting emerging Pacific scholars and community-based research across the Pacific region. Vinaka vakalevu for this opportunity," said Ana.
Congratulations Ana!
