Single mother Salote Maria Taukeisalili has overcome significant challenges to earn her degree. The 24-year-old mother of two from Nakorovou Village, Kubulau in Bua, received strong support from her family and friends throughout her tertiary education.
Taukeisalili was born and raised in her mother’s village of Namuamua in the Namosi highlands as the eldest of four siblings. She completed her primary education at Ro Matanitobua Memorial School and attended Vashist Muni College and Nasinu Secondary School for her secondary education.
She later enrolled at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Lautoka, initially majoring in commerce, but she ultimately switched her focus to a Bachelor of Arts Graduate Certificate in Education, specializing in Geography and English.
Her career journey began in 2019 when she became pregnant with her first child, whom she describes as a “challenging but rewarding” experience. Despite dealing with morning sickness and physical discomfort, she continued her studies.
In 2022, she welcomed her second son, Ezekiel. Although she informed the father of her children about her situation, he did not assist, leading her to rely on her family’s support for raising her kids.
Despite the obstacles she faced, Taukeisalili kept her goals in mind, a dream she nurtured since the birth of her first son. She expressed that the joy of motherhood motivated her to pursue her education.
With her family’s unwavering support, particularly from her mother, who took on childcare duties in Namosi, Taukeisalili was able to focus on her studies while living with relatives in Navua to avoid the daily commute.
She initially struggled with leaving her young son, but her family’s encouragement helped her persevere. Deeply grateful for her family’s belief in her, she acknowledged their pivotal role in her accomplishments.
In addition to her academic achievements, Taukeisalili has showcased her passion for fashion by participating in Fiji Fashion Week several times.
In April, she celebrated her graduation with tears of joy alongside her children as she received her certificate at the Vodafone Arena. Shortly after, she began teaching at Dilkusha Methodist High School in Nausori.
Grateful for the journey, Taukeisalili credits her success to divine intervention, emphasizing that the struggles and sacrifices were worth it, and reflecting with confidence that she wouldn’t change her experiences for anything.