Hitting rock bottom proved to be a transformative experience for civil servant Atelaite Rokosuka.
After earning her Master of Commerce in Management and Public Administration from the University of the South Pacific, Mrs. Rokosuka reflected on her journey, stating, “God is the perfect planner.” The graduation ceremony was notable for the presence of many women from various backgrounds, but for Mrs. Rokosuka, faith was the anchor during numerous challenges.
In 2018, balancing family responsibilities while pursuing her degree presented a significant challenge. She described the decision to embark on her master’s studies as a courageous step. The demands of her government role intensified the difficulties, yet she credited her family’s support with making it all possible.
“Managing my studies and caring for my family was incredibly tough,” she explained. “Finding time to study felt like an uphill battle, but with the right mindset and support from those around me, I found the motivation to keep going.”
Despite experiencing tough times, including a temporary layoff as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, Mrs. Rokosuka remained committed to her educational goals. She viewed this setback as a chance to enhance her skills and finish her master’s program. Even when she considered quitting at times, her faith in Jesus Christ helped her to overcome hurdles and stay focused on personal growth.
“Giving up wasn’t an option for me because I knew I still had a lot to accomplish, not just for myself but also to inspire others,” she remarked. “I believe that our resilience in the face of adversity defines how far we can go in life.”
Throughout her 27-year career as a civil servant, Mrs. Rokosuka found satisfaction not only in her professional achievements but also in raising six children with the support of her husband and enjoying moments with her grandchildren. She is an advocate for empowering other women to chase their educational and professional goals, believing that this fosters community support and dismantles barriers.