By Talei Roko
Tributes continue to flow in on social media as the local media fraternity mourns the passing away of journalist Jone Mary Salusalu.
A former student of the University of the South Pacific (USP) journalism programme, Salusalu, 24, passed away on Friday last week.
Remembered as a fearless reporter, media colleagues describe him as a dedicated mentor whose passion for storytelling left a lasting mark on Fiji’s media industry.
Originally from Labasa, Salusalu began his journalism career at the Fiji Sun, where he served in the newsroom from 2022 until January 2025. During his time there, he was widely known for his strong political reporting, particularly his coverage on Parliament proceedings and submissions.
Another USP journalism alumni Kaneta Naimatau, who is a journalist with the Fiji Sun, said he met Salusalu during his first internship in 2024 and described him as an influential mentor.
“He provided all the tips, especially when it came to Parliament reports and submissions. He shared handouts and guided me through everything because he was a political reporter and a very vocal one too.”
Close friend and former university classmate Sosiveta Korobiau said that Salusalu’s personality made him stand out long before his professional achievements.
“From the first time we met, he was very open and outgoing. It felt like we had known each other for years,” Korobiau said.
“One thing about Jone is that he never took no for an answer. Even if it was a no, he would find out why.”
Korobiau described him as brave, unapologetic and deeply driven by his dreams, including his desire to give back to his parents.
“He was more than a friend. He was like a brother to me. He pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me realize my worth in the industry.”
Colleagues who worked with Salusalu recalled his determination to question beyond the surface and his commitment to ensure that stories were accurate and impactful.
USP Journalism student training newspaper Wansolwara’s supervising editor Monika Singh said Salusalu was someone who had always inspired other journalism students.
Ms Singh said they were looking forward to welcoming him back as he was planning to resume his studies this year.
The journalism programme’s teaching staff extended their condolences to his family and acknowledged his contribution to the USP Journalism community.
In March 2025, Salusalu transitioned into the communications field, joining the Social Empowerment and Education Programme (SEEP) in Suva on 14 March 2025 as a Communications Officer.
In their condolence message SEEP management said through his dedication, professionalism, and passion for story-telling, Salusalu strengthened their voice across social media platforms and mainstream news outlets.
“His well-crafted press releases and strategic communications efforts helped advance the organisation’s mission and broaden its reach within the community.”
As colleagues and friends reflect on his life, Salusalu is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but for his generosity in sharing knowledge and his courage in pursuing stories that mattered.
He will be laid to rest at the Vaturekuka Cemetery in Labasa.
This article was first published on Wansolwara News and has been republished with permission.
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