Adi Salaseini Gonelevu is emerging as a powerful voice in academia and international law, dedicated not only to her studies but also to advocating for women’s empowerment. As the eldest in a family of six, including five sisters, her leadership qualities have been evident from a young age. Her passion for law was ignited by her uncle’s admission to the bar, which left a profound impression on her when she was in primary school. Growing up watching legal dramas and receiving encouragement from her parents further solidified her determination to pursue a law degree.
Gonelevu began her academic journey at The University of the South Pacific (USP) in 2018, initially enrolling in a different program before transitioning to dual-degree studies, which now includes a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on Geography and a minor in French. Her path has not been without hurdles; the birth of her son in 2021 required her to adapt her academic schedule, reducing her course load and requiring perseverance and resilience.
A significant achievement in her academic career was being selected to represent USP at The Hague Inter-University Law Debate Tournament in 2025. Initially hesitant about applying, her philosophy of stepping out of her comfort zone propelled her to accept the challenge. Her hard work paid off when she was not only accepted onto the team but was also appointed as the team leader. This role highlighted her exemplary leadership and collaborative spirit, as she expressed gratitude for the amazing support from her teammates.
Participating in the tournament represents more than just personal success for Gonelevu; it signifies an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a global scale, particularly for women who struggle to find their voice. Her commitment to advocating for women’s rights is deeply personal, as she understands the systemic challenges many women face in their pursuit of dreams. She noted that while progress is being made in the Pacific, it often requires women to work twice as hard to be recognized, a sentiment echoed by many women in similar spaces.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Accelerate Action,” Gonelevu emphasized the pressing need for change, inspiring others to hold strong to their visions and aspirations, no matter the challenges ahead. She encourages individuals to pursue their goals for their own reasons rather than external pressures, reminding others that personal journeys are unique and deserve respect.
Gonelevu’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience of women pursuing education and leadership roles despite adversity. Through her experiences, she not only showcases what is possible when one remains committed to their aspirations but also serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe they might not be heard. Her narrative, much like that of similar inspiring figures like Maraia Marama Vadei, illustrates a powerful message: with determination, support, and a willingness to fight for equal opportunities, anything is possible.
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