Luisa Grace Tuituku Tagicakibau may come across as a modest young woman, but recently she has experienced a significant triumph in her life.
Luisa was among those who celebrated their graduation during the recent ceremony at the University of the South Pacific. She originates from Lovu in Gau, while her maternal roots trace back to Nukuni in Ono-i-Lau. As the oldest of three siblings, Luisa’s journey to achievement stems from very humble beginnings.
She observed her parents’ daily struggles to provide the best for their family. “I grew up in a family where I watched my parents struggle every day to provide for us,” Luisa reflected. “It was hard to see them work tirelessly, sacrificing their own needs to ensure we were well-fed and dressed.” Despite facing financial difficulties, her parents demonstrated profound love and support, emphasizing values that transcended monetary wealth. Their determination and resilience instilled in Luisa the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Despite challenges, the family remained united and focused. Luisa’s educational journey included attending Suva Adventist Primary School and Suva Adventist College until Form 6, before completing her studies at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School. While she initially considered a career in accounting, a significant life change prompted her to pursue a science degree instead.
“I chose to pursue a Bachelor of Science, majoring in biology and chemistry,” Luisa said. “At first, I didn’t plan for this path, but I believe it was all part of God’s plan for my life.”
Her academic journey was challenging, echoing her humble beginnings. Luisa maintained her spiritual grounding and tenacity to navigate the tough times. “Balancing coursework, group projects, and assignments was certainly a challenge during my tertiary education,” she shared. “But I managed to pull through till the end, never slipping into failure. This success would not have been possible without God.”
Graduation day was a special occasion for Luisa, made more memorable with her friends and family by her side. “Graduation felt like a huge accomplishment for me. It was a mix of relief and excitement to see my hard work come to fruition,” she said. “It was especially thrilling to graduate alongside my friend, who has been with me throughout this journey.”
Looking ahead, Luisa hopes to make significant contributions to her field in the next five years. “I envision myself building a solid career in science, possibly in a research or lab position. I hope my experience and knowledge can be applied to projects that advance the field.”
Luisa has words of encouragement for the younger generation: “Don’t be afraid and embrace new opportunities. I believe the future holds great prospects for me. Put God first in everything. Don’t shy away from change and unexpected paths, as sometimes what you didn’t plan could lead you to what you love. Be open to new experiences and always strive to do your best.”