Freddy Tora, a 30-year-old from Nailaga, Ba, has achieved remarkable success against the odds, moving from diving for mussels in the Ba River to becoming an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate in the United States Navy. Faced with financial challenges after high school, Tora remained determined to create a better life for himself.
On September 26, Tora graduated as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate after completing a rigorous three-month training program at the U.S. Naval Station in Great Lakes, Illinois. His goal in joining the Navy is to eventually pursue a career in medicine.
Reflecting on his training, Tora expressed gratitude to a higher power for the strength and resources provided to him. He noted that the most challenging aspect of his training was the mental preparation required to become a strong leader and sailor.
Several aspects of the training reminded him of home, particularly the swimming tests, which brought back memories of diving for mussels in the river. Tora, the youngest of four siblings, attended local schools and later pursued higher education at the Fiji National University. However, due to financial difficulties, he paused his studies and ran a barber business while helping support his family.
In 2019, he completed his education at the University of the South Pacific and moved to the U.S. in 2022. After settling in Kansas City, he obtained a certified nursing assistant license and worked at a hospital for a year before relocating to California and eventually to Florida for further training at Aviation School.
Tora credits his mother, family, and friends for motivating him through his journey. He plans to enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program to continue his passion for helping others.