Pio Navara’s journey to becoming a lawyer has proven to be worthwhile. A year ago, he nearly abandoned his law studies due to financial difficulties. To cope, he took a two-year break to engage in farming in his village of Nalawa, Ra, which offered him respite from extensive study hours.
Navara began his law studies in 2019 at the University of the South Pacific, marking a significant turning point in his life. The 26-year-old was among 33 graduates from USP who were officially admitted to the Bar during a ceremony held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva on Friday.
Reflecting on his experiences, Navara noted that pursuing quality education in his village was challenging. “Deciding to pursue a Law degree at the university level was a courageous choice I had to make despite financial hardships,” he stated. “The dream of becoming a lawyer began in high school, and I was determined not to give up on it.”
Throughout his law studies, Navara faced numerous financial hurdles, often causing delays in his progress. Farming became a valuable source of income during this time. As the eldest in his family, he felt a strong sense of responsibility and expectations placed upon him.
Despite these challenges, Navara successfully obtained his Bachelor’s degree and has now been admitted to the Bar. He expressed gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices. “My mother struggled to find stable work but ensured that my siblings and I received an education,” he shared. “Walking to the podium to be sworn in, I recalled the hardships my parents endured for our education, including sleepless nights and poor nutrition to provide us with a better future.”
Navara is now employed by a law firm.