Milika Ligabalavu, a lawyer and Assistant Lecturer at Fiji National University (FNU), led a team of law students to a remarkable victory in an inter-tertiary moot court competition, marking a significant achievement for FNU. This win showcases the effectiveness of teamwork and commitment.
Ligabalavu’s career is characterized by her dedication to aiding others and a passion for lifelong learning. She has Fijian roots from Korolevu, Noikoro, Navosa, and Papua New Guinea’s Central Province. Initially serving as an Immigration Officer for a foreign government in Suva, Ligabalavu shifted to law in 2019, gaining admission to the Bar at the High Court of Fiji. She began her legal practice in the private sector before taking on the role of Policy and Research Officer at the Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF). In April 2024, she became an Assistant Lecturer at the FNU School of Law.
As the Moot Coordinator for FNU’s law students, Ligabalavu demonstrated strong leadership and mentorship. She selected a diverse team that included first-year to fourth-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) students, choosing members based on their advocacy and research talents. The core team consisted of third-year student Talei Karavaki, second-year student Arnold Chanel, and first-year student Peter Racolo, who were assisted by final-year students Fane Draunibaka, Setaita Takiveikata, Timoci Mocebalavu, and first-year student Kushal Sharma.
The team dedicated themselves to extensive preparation, often sacrificing their breaks to focus on the competition. This involved analyzing competition questions, researching relevant laws, drafting submissions, and refining their advocacy skills, with guidance and support from Ligabalavu and Assistant Professor Ana Rokomokoti, Head of the Department of Law.
The competition, hosted by the University of the South Pacific Law Students Association with support from the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, concluded with a final round at the High Court of Fiji. Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, the team’s dedication and collaboration paved the way for their victory. Their transformation into confident advocates ready for the legal profession was evident throughout the process.
Ligabalavu’s influence at FNU leaves a lasting legacy, promising a profound impact on the legal community in Fiji for years to come. This triumph is not merely a team win but a reflection of the strength found in perseverance, hard work, and collective effort.