Sainimere Kurumaira, a 23-year-old resident of Waikete, Tailevu, embodies resilience and determination, shaped by a challenging upbringing. The youngest of six siblings, her journey began with the early loss of her third-eldest brother shortly after her birth. Her family faced extreme poverty, with her father’s income as a salesman insufficient to support them, leading her mother to work as a housemaid to provide for the family.
Reflecting on her childhood, Kurumaira described it as turbulent but acknowledged that these experiences motivated her to excel in her studies. Her mother’s words, “Na kwa vinaka na vosota,” meaning “it is good to tolerate it a bit more,” served as a constant source of encouragement, helping her navigate life’s adversities.
Kurumaira credited her family’s prayers and sacrifices as pivotal to her academic achievements and social development. She expressed gratitude for the lessons learned through her family’s challenges, which have shaped her identity and goals. Currently, she describes herself as a sociable person who enjoys connecting with friends and family over discussions and kava sessions.
Initially aspiring to be an anthropologist or forensic psychologist, Kurumaira discovered a passion for psychology and education that aligns with her desire to help others. A graduate of the University of the South Pacific, she acknowledges that challenges are integral to life yet emphasizes the importance of overcoming them.
During her university years, she faced academic stress and adjustments to a new environment while navigating financial pressures, especially during the pandemic. Throughout her trials, her faith provided significant support. A quiet moment for prayer helped her stay focused on her aspirations, despite personal losses, including her mother’s absence at her graduation on September 6, 2024.
Currently, she is completing an internship at Greenhouse Coworking, which she sees as a valuable opportunity for personal growth and networking. In her free time, she enjoys a variety of music genres, listens to podcasts about true crime, and values social interactions.
Looking ahead, Kurumaira hopes to pursue a master’s degree in forensic psychology or forensic science and encourages younger generations to remain persistent in their goals, stay connected with their faith, and be open to new experiences and challenges. She embodies the spirit of chasing dreams, no matter how unpredictable the future may be.
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