Wainikiti (Kiti) Bogidrau was a distinguished Fijian netball administrator and senior manager at the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). She held significant leadership roles, including serving as President of the Fiji Netball Association from 2010 to 2020 and as President of the Oceania Netball Federation from 2019. In the latter capacity, she became the first Fijian to sit on the board of World Netball. Wikipedia
Born in Fiji, Bogidrau pursued higher education with distinction. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, specializing in Population Studies and Demography, from the University of the South Pacific in 2000, receiving multiple accolades, including the Vice-Chancellor’s gold medal for outstanding academic and community service. She furthered her studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, obtaining a Master of Arts in Pacific Island Studies in 2004, followed by a postgraduate diploma in Public Administration. Wikipedia
Professionally, Bogidrau’s career encompassed journalism and corporate management. She worked with Fijian newspapers such as the Daily Post, the Fiji Sun, and the Fiji Times before joining the FNPF in 2006, where she rose to the position of Head of Research and Product Development. Wikipedia
Her involvement in netball began as a player during her school years and extended into club competitions. Transitioning into administration around 2000, she dedicated over two decades to the sport, significantly contributing to its development in Fiji and the Oceania region. Her leadership was instrumental in advancing netball’s profile and governance. Wikipedia
Tragically, Wainikiti Bogidrau passed away suddenly on January 8, 2025, at the age of 57. World Netball expressed deep sorrow at her passing, acknowledging her integral role in the netball community and her numerous friendships and leadership positions that led to significant developments within Fiji, the Oceania region, and the global netball community. FBC News
Her passing is a profound loss to the sports community, both in Fiji and internationally. Her legacy in netball administration and her contributions to sports development will be remembered and cherished by many.
