Atelaite Rokosuka, a dedicated civil servant, has transformed her life after hitting a low point. Recently, she graduated from the University of the South Pacific with a Master of Commerce in Management and Public Administration, reflecting on her journey as one guided by divine planning.
At the graduation ceremony, Mrs. Rokosuka shared her story, emphasizing the importance of faith in her life despite numerous setbacks. Balancing family responsibilities with her studies proved to be a significant challenge when she started her master’s program in 2018. She acknowledged that it was a courageous decision, particularly given her demanding role in government.
The support of her family was crucial, allowing her to navigate the difficulties of managing her studies and daily life. “Finding time to study was a battle in itself, but with the right mindset and support from those around me, I was motivated to persevere,” Mrs. Rokosuka stated.
Even during her toughest moments, including a temporary layoff from her position as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, she held onto her faith and commitment to continuing her education. She viewed the layoff as an opportunity to enhance her skills and complete her degree.
Mrs. Rokosuka admitted that there were times when she felt like giving up, but her faith in Jesus Christ fueled her determination to overcome obstacles and strive toward becoming her best self. “Giving up wasn’t an option for me because I knew I still had a lot to accomplish in the future, not only for myself but to share my knowledge with others,” she remarked.
Throughout her 27-year career as a civil servant, Mrs. Rokosuka has also found joy in raising six children with the support of her husband and cherishing moments with her grandchildren. She believes in the power of encouraging other women to pursue their educational and professional goals to foster a supportive community and dismantle barriers.