BIU Nabalagi is a mother of six. But for 11 months, there was someone else who had her special attention.
Her grown-up children had to make way for Adi Mana, and with their support, the baby grew under her care as part of the Mamanuca turtle conservation project.
When the turtle was finally released into the Pacific Ocean last month, her mother was left behind teary-eyed.
Mamanuca Environment Project manager Betani Salusalu said the main thing that drives the interest of people such as Aunty Biu for the conservation of turtles was their passion.
Aunty Biu, as she is known, raised the 11-month-old turtle from an infant until her release.
Her effort puts her among nominees for the Pride of Fiji Awards.
"We need and should encourage more people like Aunty Biu in this field of work because at the end of the day, we could protect and save more turtles than we would expect," Mr Salusalu said
"We also need to recognise their interest and efforts. In doing so, they would continue, not only by the work they have done, but being an ambassador for such an initiative.
"Having people like aunty Biu around is very rare today. It takes great commitment and passion with understanding (knowledge) to be able to do this."
Aunty Bui has been in the tourism industry for the last 36 years. In her field of work as a guest relations supervisor, she ensures that guests who stay at the Mana Island Resort enjoy their stay.
Aunty Biu hails from Bucalevu, Ra, and is married to retired Mana Island duty manager Semesa Nabalagi. They have four sons and two daughters.
"Everyone at the resort, whether they are guests, staff or locals, know my mum as aunty Biu," said her son, Timoci.
"I guess it's her motherly instincts that people, especially our young guests, recognise."
Mr Salusalu said more people had shown interest but had not done as much as what aunty Biu did.
