As one of the few locally owned and Fijian-led resorts in Fiji, Nukubati played a key role in facilitating community interviews with traditional leaders and fisher communities, ensuring their voices and stories are at the heart of this global conservation effort. “Our strength has always been in our people and our community networks,” said Jenny Leewai Bourke, owner of Nukubati.
“Hosting National Geographic Pristine Seas is not just about showcasing our pristine environment, but also about amplifying Fijian voices, traditional knowledge, and the importance of local stewardship in protecting the Great Sea Reef.”
The expedition also highlighted the work of Leone Vokai, owner of Great Sea Reef Divers and Nukubati’s resident dive instructor. Originally from Mali Island, Leone established his dive business to create opportunities for local youth and to empower the next generation of ocean guardians. Today, operating from Nukubati, he and his team are the trusted guides for Pristine Seas’ underwater documentation of the reef.
“Growing up by the reef, I always knew it was our lifeline,” said Vokai. “Working with Pristine Seas shows our young people that they can be both protectors and leaders in ocean conservation, while also building meaningful careers in diving and tourism.”
This collaboration reflects Nukubati’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, regenerative tourism, and cultural empowerment. From employing local communities and practicing farm-tofork dining, to spearheading conservation initiatives such as mangrove restoration and living seawalls, Nukubati continues to be a model for how tourism can protect the environment while uplifting local people.
The presence of National Geographic Pristine Seas at Nukubati further cements the Great Sea Reef’s global importance — not only as a biodiversity hotspot, but as a living cultural landscape that sustains Fijian communities.
