Semi Seruvakula, a 29-year-old from Navutu Village in Naitasiri, has turned a challenging past into a hopeful future. Once derailed from his mechanical engineering studies due to peer pressure 11 years ago, Semi took charge of his life and made significant strides in his education.
On Thursday, he proudly received his Certificate in Fabrication and Welding (Level 3) at the graduation ceremony held at the Vodafone Arena, organized by Fiji National University (FNU). Mr. Seruvakula reflected on his journey, acknowledging that after returning to his village, he initially resigned himself to farming alongside his father. However, a friend’s offer to work as a security officer opened new doors for him.
Determined to improve his situation, Semi financed his studies through his job in security, dedicating himself to both work and education. His father, Venieli Cakausese, the village headman, expressed immense pride in his son’s accomplishments. He noted that while Semi faced hardships, these experiences have molded him into a strong, independent individual.
Mr. Cakausese encouraged young people to pursue their education, emphasizing that there are abundant opportunities available, and the responsibility to seize them lies within the youth. After 18 months of dedicated study at FNU’s Samabula campus, Semi is now employed at Fast Engineering and remains passionate about his work. He credits his faith as his guiding force as he looks to the future.
This story exemplifies resilience, motivation, and the power of faith in overcoming adversity. It serves as inspiration for others facing similar struggles and highlights the potential for transformation through hard work and determination. With Semi’s story, we are reminded that the path to success may be fraught with challenges, but those challenges can serve as stepping stones toward a brighter future.
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