Atelaite Rokosuka, a dedicated civil servant, describes hitting rock bottom as a transformative opportunity in her life. After earning a Master of Commerce in Management and Public Administration from the University of the South Pacific, she reflects on her journey with the sentiment that “God is the perfect planner.”
The graduation ceremony saw many women from various backgrounds celebrated, but for Rokosuka, it was a testament to her faith amidst numerous challenges. Balancing family responsibilities while pursuing her studies in 2018 proved to be a significant hurdle. She noted that beginning her master’s program was a courageous decision.
The demands of her government job compounded the difficulties of her studies, yet she credits her family for their unwavering support. “Juggling studies and daily family needs was tough,” she shared, emphasizing that finding time to study was a challenge. However, she found motivation through the right mindset and encouragement from those around her.
Despite experiencing some of her toughest times, including a temporary layoff from her role as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, Rokosuka remained committed to her education and her faith. She viewed her layoff as a pivotal moment to enhance her skills and achieve her master’s degree.
Rokosuka admitted there were moments she felt like giving up, but her faith in Jesus Christ helped her navigate through setbacks and motivated her to strive for personal growth. “Giving up wasn’t an option for me because I knew I still had a lot to accomplish, not only for myself but to share my knowledge with others,” she asserted.
She believes that resilience is key, stating that overcoming challenges is crucial for progress in life. Through her achievements, Rokosuka has not only built a notable career in civil service over the past 27 years but also embraced the joys of raising six children with her husband and spending time with her grandchildren.
She encourages other women to pursue their educational and professional goals, believing this can foster a supportive community and help dismantle barriers.