Vani Sokomuri, at the age of 42, has made history as the first in her family to earn a higher education qualification. She proudly graduated alongside 27 others from the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam College of Nursing and Health Care Education, where she obtained a National Certificate in Aged Care and Community Care Level Three.
During a graduation ceremony held at the Civic Centre in Labasa, this expectant mother of her seventh child shared her remarkable six-month journey filled with determination and hard work. Vani recounted how, after putting all her children to bed, she dedicated herself to studying late into the night, sometimes waking as early as 2 a.m. to study before preparing breakfast and getting her children ready for school.
Her weekdays were incredibly hectic. “Monday to Friday felt like rush hour,” she explained, detailing her routine of ensuring she was in class by 8 a.m. after sending her children off to school and organizing care for her youngest child. Originally hailing from Baravi Village in Navakasiga, Bua, and being the eldest of six, her hard work paid off as she was recognized with the Best Clinical Student Female award during her graduation.
Although Vani completed Year 13 at Labasa Sangam (SKM) College and began a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of the South Pacific, financial challenges led her to put her studies on hold to prioritize her family after marriage. “I always wanted to study,” she expressed, emphasizing her dream of pursuing tertiary education and setting a positive example for her children to inspire them to never abandon their dreams. She expressed gratitude to her husband, Napolioni Latianara, an officer with the Labasa Corrections Service, for his unwavering support throughout her educational journey.
Vani’s story underscores the power of perseverance and the importance of education in shaping the future for her children and community. Her achievements are a testament to the idea that it is never too late to chase one’s dreams, and her determination is sure to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Summary: Vani Sokomuri, aged 42, becomes the first in her family to attain higher education, graduating from TISI Sangam College with a National Certificate in Aged Care and Community Care Level Three. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood and education, Vani’s determination and hard work set a positive example for her children. Her inspiring journey highlights the importance of pursuing dreams at any age.
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