Mikaela Finau celebrated a significant graduation milestone today, marking the culmination of years of commitment and perseverance. Hailing from Sigatoka, he expressed a mixture of emotions—joy, uncertainty, and a touch of sadness—reflecting on the hard work that led him to this moment.
Throughout his educational journey, Mikaela drew strength from his mother, Loata Maram Finau, who has been a steadfast support since the passing of his father when he was in Year 12. The sacrifices she made to ensure his success were not lost on him, as he credited her with instilling resilience and determination to face future challenges. “I was close to giving up,” he stated, acknowledging the encouragement he received from his mother and extended family that helped him push through difficult times.
Loata, in her emotional remarks, shared her overwhelming pride but also her yearning for her late husband to witness their son’s achievements. “I feel very emotional because the very person who was supposed to be standing by my side is not here anymore,” she said, highlighting the importance of family support in academic success.
Today also saw a total of 1,881 students graduating from the University of the South Pacific, each with their unique stories of perseverance, much like Mikaela’s. Their commitment to education reflects a broader community effort to uplift future generations.
This graduation not only represents the individual achievements of students like Mikaela but also serves as a reminder of the essential role family and community play in fostering resilience and ambition. As more students continue to overcome obstacles, their stories symbolize hope and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
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