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History was made this week as Vanuatu’s Jacklynda Molidu returned home proudly carrying three medals from two major international para-badminton tournaments in Melbourne, Australia. This marks the nation’s first-ever international medal tally in the sport. Competing in the Yonex Australian Para Badminton International and the Victor Oceania Para Badminton Championships 2025, Molidu, alongside teammate Rodney Talo and team manager Lyn Kuai, represented Vanuatu with distinction. While Talo gained valuable experience, it was 29-year-old Molidu who making her debut, captured the spotlight during their two-week's stay in Australia. Classified in the SH6 short stature category, she showcased remarkable skill and determination throughout the competitions. Molidu secured her first medal, a bronze, in the singles event at the Victor Oceania Championships. She then teamed up with Papua New Guinea’s Isaac Uma in the mixed doubles, where the pair also earned a bronze medal. Her crowning achievement came when she advanced to the grand final of the Yonex Australian Para Badminton International — her first-ever international final where she claimed the silver medal in the singles category. “It was a very proud moment for me,” Molidu said after her victories. “The journey was hard playing against experienced players, but I was determined and I thank God for these wins.” Team Manager Lyn Kuai commended both athletes, saying, “Jacklynda and Rodney represented Vanuatu very proudly. The effort they put in, and the results achieved, are a great inspiration for us all.” President of the Vanuatu Paralympic Committee (VPC), Margaret McFarlane, expressed her pride in Molidu’s achievements, noting that her success has secured her automatic qualification for the Commonwealth Games next year. McFarlane added that Molidu serves as an excellent role model for women and para-athletes, especially as a single mother balancing sport and family life. VPC acknowledged the crucial support from the Korean Paralympic Committee, Titan FX, Oceania Badminton, and VASANOC for making the athletes’ journey possible through training, classification, and financial assistance. McFarlane said the committee now aims to expand para-badminton programs into schools across Vanuatu, inspired by Molidu’s trailblazing performance. Molidu’s remarkable debut not only brings medals home but also marks a new chapter for para-sports in Vanuatu one that promises growth, opportunity, and inspiration for future generations. Talo was classified in the SL4 class.
