Ana Seru, a Year Nine student from the densely populated Raiwaqa area, has been recognized as the top female cadet during the John Wesley College passing-out parade held at Albert Park, Suva. The 14-year-old reflected on her experience, noting that the one-week cadet training was particularly challenging due to the humid weather and the complexities of learning marching moves.
Throughout her upbringing, Ana faced numerous social issues, which she acknowledged were not ideal. However, she emphasized her commitment to academic excellence as the means to improve her circumstances. “I had no other choice; the only way to enhance my life is through education,” she stated.
Hailing from Naivucini, Naitasiri, Ana highlighted the importance of making sound decisions, especially when confronting peer pressure. She credits her family for instilling these values in her. “Making good choices leads to positive outcomes,” she shared.
In her acceptance of the award, Ana dedicated it to her siblings and her father, who was present at the event. She expressed hopes that her achievement would inspire her younger siblings, who are in primary school, to strive for similar accomplishments. “I’m the introvert in the family, and I hope this award will inspire my younger siblings to believe that they can achieve anything if they set their minds to it. They want to join secondary school and participate in cadet training after seeing my performance,” she said.