At the age of 42, Vani Sokomuri has proudly become the first in her family to earn a tertiary education qualification. She graduated alongside 27 others at the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam College of Nursing and Health Care Education, receiving a National Certificate in Aged Care and Community Care Level Three.
During the graduation ceremony held on Tuesday at the Civic Centre in Labasa, the expectant mother of her seventh child recounted her inspiring journey of hard work and determination over the past six months. “After putting all my children to sleep, I would study until 1 am,” she revealed. On some occasions, she would even wake up at 2 am to study before preparing breakfast and getting her children ready for school.
Her weekdays were incredibly hectic. “Monday to Friday felt like rush hour,” Ms. Sokomuri explained. After seeing her children off to school and organizing care for her youngest child, she made sure to attend class by 8 am.
Originally hailing from Baravi Village in Navakasiga, Bua, and being the oldest of six siblings, she was honored with the Best Clinical Student Female award. Although she 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 pause her studies and focus on family life after marriage.
“I always wanted to study,” Ms. Sokomuri shared, expressing her aspirations. “Like many others, I dreamed of achieving a tertiary education and setting a positive example for my children, showing them that dreams should never be abandoned.”
She expressed her gratitude to her husband, Napolioni Latianara, an officer with the Labasa Corrections Service, for his unwavering support throughout her educational journey.
This heartwarming story highlights the importance of perseverance, encouraging others to pursue their dreams no matter the obstacles they face. Vani’s achievements serve as a reminder that it is never too late to invest in one’s education and that determination can lead to inspiring success.
In summary, Vani Sokomuri’s journey is a testament to the power of education and perseverance, especially in the face of life’s many challenges. It’s a hopeful reminder that achieving one’s goals is possible, regardless of circumstances.
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