At 31, Rumaana Vualiku Sheikh’s journey from a small village in Ba to her graduation day highlights her resilience and determination. As the oldest of five siblings raised by a single mother, Ms. Sheikh encountered numerous challenges but remained focused on her goals.
Achieving a Professional Diploma in Business Management represents the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice, especially after she returned to school after a decade. She often juggled night shifts with afternoon classes, enduring struggling bouts of exhaustion.
Despite the obstacles, she stayed committed to completing her diploma. “There were tough days,” she reflected. “But I kept reminding myself of why I started and pushed through.”
Working at Mindpearl and later at Fiji Airways, Ms. Sheikh balanced her studies with a demanding job. With her struggles now in the past, she feels confident and empowered, as the dream she once tirelessly pursued has turned into reality.
Her siblings traveled from the West to show their support and celebrate this significant milestone. Ms. Sheikh’s story is not solely about academic achievement; it serves as a compelling example of perseverance.
“My mum has always been my biggest supporter,” she stated. “Her sacrifices made me want to succeed even more.”
Looking ahead, Ms. Sheikh plans to pursue further studies, possibly an MBA, indicating that her journey is far from over. Her experience demonstrates that it is never too late to chase one’s dreams, regardless of the challenges faced along the way. For Ms. Sheikh and her family, her graduation signifies not only a personal accomplishment but also a source of hope and inspiration.