For many adults, the thought of returning to school after many years can be intimidating. However, for Reena Ben, this experience marked a pivotal moment that rejuvenated her self-esteem and transformed her future.
Reena Ben was raised in Toorak, where she attended both Nehru Memorial School and Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School. Although she completed her education, her modest academic results left her feeling disheartened and uncertain about her scholarly capabilities. “I passed, but my marks were only just above the pass level, and I was never happy with them,” she reflected.
After entering the workforce, Ms. Ben worked as an office clerk and later as an accounts clerk at Shanti Lal Brothers. Yet, she soon recognized that her earlier academic performance was hindering her career possibilities. Eager to enhance her qualifications, she sought further education opportunities. When informed that she exceeded the age limit for traditional secondary school enrollment, she was directed to the Nabua Matua Secondary School program, designed for adults eager to further their education.
This decision turned out to be transformative. In 2024, 22 years after leaving high school, Ms. Ben graduated Year 12, achieving first place in the annual examinations and earning both a gold medal and the top academic award. “For many years people remembered that I had not done well in school, and sometimes they made comments about it,” she shared. “Coming back and achieving this result showed me that nothing is impossible if you work hard.”
Before this achievement, Ms. Ben had also completed part-time studies at the University of the South Pacific and performed well in her foundation program. However, improving her Year 12 results was a personal goal she felt determined to accomplish. She credits the unwavering support of her family, which helped her manage the balance between work, study, and responsibilities.
Now, Ms. Ben aspires to become a primary school teacher, hoping to work with young students and help them build the confidence she once struggled to discover. “I want to help both the students who are doing well and those who are struggling so that every child has the chance to succeed,” she explained. “If students are given the right guidance and support, no one needs to fail.”
In addition to her ambitions in education, Ms. Ben aims to inspire other adults, especially women who may be disheartened by past academic disappointments, to consider returning to education. “It is never too late,” she emphasized. “If you have the ambition and are willing to work hard, you can change your future.” Through her journey, Reena Ben exemplifies that determination and perseverance can lead to monumental changes, encouraging others to pursue their dreams regardless of their past.
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