“I am fortunate to have people in my life that motivate me, pray for me and want nothing but the best for me every day.” – Selina Solman
Selina Solman is a young woman that knows that she’s blessed and pays it forward. The captain of the Vanuatu National Women’s Cricket Team not only takes pride in representing her country in cricket, but also is committed to encouraging women and children to play her beloved sport. A proud woman Tanna, Selina believes it’s important to remember your culture and to take the opportunity to celebrate it when you can.
#VanuatuCricketCaptain #SportySelina #AelanQueen
Name:
Selina Iakia Solman
Age:
24
Where are you from?
Happily hailing from the island of Tanna
Occupation:
I am the captain of Vanuatu National Women’s Cricket Team. I am incredibly honored to have been chosen for this role as it allows me to be a part of a family where we come together to play a sport that isn’t just for individuals, it’s a sport that EVERYONE can play, young or old, big or small. The cricket organization itself is always looking forward to adding new and interesting faces.
Aside from training, tournaments and international competitions, I am always a part of the workshop and outreach program teams that are sent out to encourage children, students and mamas to come join and play cricket. If you are interested in playing cricket please do not hesitate to reach out to us on our Facebook page or just come to our office at Indy Park.
Tell us about your family
My family? (Laughs) We’re a big family, one that is very much involved with sports. They are very supportive of me and of each other. I am fortunate to have people in my life that motivate me, pray for me and want nothing but the best for me every day. If it weren’t for them, my cricket career wouldn’t have grown to where it’s at now. My family is the biggest blessing I have and every day I am thankful for them.
What do you do in your spare time?
Cricket was the one hobby I had in my teen years and it has now become a major part of my life! When I first started playing cricket, all my spare time was devoted to just learning how to bowl properly and hold a cricket bat correctly and trying not to get too tired when it got heavy. Even after doing all the household chores, you could find me outside with a plastic bat trying to perfect my swing and hits. I was very much addicted to the game and it didn’t leave room for any other hobbies or interests.
I do like gardening as it helps me to think. I also like dancing to music around the house or if someone has good music playing I can’t help but dance a little. I like eating, hanging out with friends, and I love babysitting my nieces they’re so adorable! I spend so much time with them I’m now singing along to the ABC kids channel.
What do you aspire to do in the future ?
I’d like to become a highly qualified professional cricket coach. It seems like a very fulfilling career path to me to encourage girls to join and play cricket and be able to help them towards achieving their goals. I’ve already started practicing my coaching skills and I am actually coaching and looking for girls to join my cricket team – the ‘Powerhouse Women’s Cricket’. The season is starting up again and I would not mind a team filled with fresh faces interested in playing cricket.
Vanuatu Cricket is always on the lookout for girls to join their family and I have an opening for any interested girl in my team (Note: If you know any girl who wants to play cricket but is shy or doesn’t know how but would like to learn, direct them to Selina please)
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as casual and sporty as I’m always on the go and I can’t really run and get dirty in a skirt or a dress. I find myself opting for the convenience and versatility of an outfit rather than the style and image it presents of me. So my go to look is either a pair of sports shorts, a t-shirt and a pair of runners or it’s my cricket kit training wear and uniform that is proudly sponsored by Holiday Inn.
Why do you like fashion?
I love fashion, particularly when I see someone expressing themselves through their clothes. To me fashion changes individual’s perspective of themselves and that society has of them. I see it as a confidence booster!
Where do you buy your clothes from ?
When I travel for cricket overseas (especially when I go to Australia) I usually just shop at Target and Kmart. In Port Vila I go to second hand shops, as it’s more affordable. It is rare that I buy from well-established brand shops unless I am looking for a specific item of clothing that I cannot seem to find in either second shop.
Who influences your style ?
The mamas and their trend setting colorful island dresses/two piece outfits and handmade jewelry always make me want to buy a new island dress for church and special gatherings, because it is the most versatile item of clothing I know. You can wear it to multiple occasions, weddings, work , birthdays, custom ceremonies you can even have island dresses to wear for when you stay at home or like the mamas who participate in our ‘Island Cricket Tournaments’, you can wear and play cricket in an island dress while promoting the importance of staying fit and healthy to our mamas and young island sistas .
My friends also influence some of my choices, as the majority of them know how to dress simple and casual very well. My own people and our traditional custom wear, especially the use of color in the grass skirts and face paint, also influence me. The vibrant colors make it enjoyable to put together outfits for special occasions.
What beauty products do you use ?
I use coconut oil on my hair and skin and deodorant. I find that coconut oil does wonders for me and helps me maintain the way I look and with the lifestyle I lead. It is the most simple and effective beauty product that doesn’t consume my time to put on when I’m getting ready to head out to training or to meet up with friends. Deodorant is also a convenient product because it keeps me smelling clean even after a particularly long training session or game.
I find myself only wearing perfume and sometimes lip-gloss when I attend functions and other special occasions where dressing up is required.
Any fashion advice?
I’m still trying to practice my own advice but I’d like to say, wear what makes you feel comfortable and the most alive! Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new looks if you want to as you never know who you are inspiring and helping with their own confidence. When you get the opportunity to represent your cultural background like I did with this Sista issue, please take it without hesitation and show everyone where you come from proudly. Celebrate your culture, be proud of it, and don’t shy away from it.
Hair, makeup and nails: Lotus Day Spa and Cafe
Photographer: Nicky Kuautonga
Stylist: Adonnai Varahu
This article was originally published in the Vanuatu Daily Post’s October edition of the Life and Style magazine
