President
Country: Australia
Organisation: Tongan Victorian Association Inc (TVA)
Ikani migrated to Australia with his family from Tonga in 1980 and finished his secondary schooling in Australia. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts. Ikani’s career has included roles in Asset Management, Economic Development and teaching at secondary school level in Tonga. He has also competed professionally for Tonga in athletic events internationally including the 1990 Commonwealth Games.
Ikani is actively committed to community development having founded the Tongan Victorian Association Inc (TVA) which actively works towards addressing issues facing Tongan communities in Victoria and Australia. Furthermore, he has been working with leaders of Pacific Island communities in Victoria in establishing a peak body for Australians of Pacific Island heritage. A founding member and driving force behind the United Pasifika Council of Victoria (UPCOV), Ikani is particularly passionate about the interconnect of Pacific diasporic communities in Australia and the Pacific region.
Ikani has led the development of innovative models of engagement and dialogue, not only to highlight the issues faced by Pacific Island communities but to push major initiatives that significantly contributes to Australia’s engagement with the Pacific. Ikani founded Ovava Limited, a not-for-profit organization with a Board of high profile individuals to purse this endeavor.