Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student at Nabua Secondary School, recently shared a powerful reminder with his peers about the importance of hard work. Earlier this year, Manasa faced several obstacles while trying to enroll in a secondary school in Suva. Coming from a low-income family with minimal support from classmates, he found it challenging to fit in. In an effort to support his education, his parents invested in a brush cutter for him to generate income.
Manasa’s persistence paid off when he encountered a generous customer, Nirmal Singh Cheema, who played a pivotal role in his educational journey. Reflecting on his family’s struggles, Manasa said, “Seeing my parents struggle from time to time, I knew I had to level up and become the best version of myself every day.” He dedicated his days to earning a living by mowing lawns in his neighborhood.
At a recent prizegiving ceremony, Manasa was recognized for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments held in Australia earlier this year. For him, receiving this award represents a significant milestone in his journey of self-improvement. Mr. Cheema emphasized his support came from recognizing potential in others. “The message I want to share is that there are many young people like Manasa who need our support and encouragement. We must believe in our children,” he stated.
Mr. Cheema also highlighted the importance of community involvement, believing in the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” He urged everyone to help children striving for success, especially those facing financial hardships, and called on schools to embrace every student, as they all have the potential to make a significant impact.
This inspiring story not only showcases Manasa’s determination but also highlights how community support can play a crucial role in helping young individuals overcome adversity. It encourages a hopeful outlook, demonstrating that when we believe in and invest in our youth, we can help them achieve their dreams.
In summary, Manasa Katonivere’s journey emphasizes the value of perseverance and community support in the pursuit of education and personal growth.
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