Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student from Nabua Secondary School, recently shared an inspiring message with his fellow students, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of hard work. This year, Manasa navigated significant challenges as he attempted to enroll in a secondary school in Suva, coming from a low-income background and lacking support from peers. To assist with his education costs, his parents invested in a brush cutter, allowing him to earn money.
Manasa’s commitment and determination shone through as he took to the streets, offering lawn-mowing services to contribute to his family’s income. During this journey, he found a critical ally in local resident Nirmal Singh Cheema, who offered guidance and encouragement. Reflecting on his experiences, Manasa acknowledged his parents’ struggles and expressed his desire to become the best version of himself each day.
At a recent award ceremony, Manasa was honored for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments in Australia, marking a turning point in his educational journey. Cheema emphasized that his support stemmed from recognizing the potential within young individuals. His message resonates with the importance of community involvement in nurturing youth: “Many young people like Manasa need our support and encouragement. We must believe in our children,” he stated.
Cheema advocated for outreach to children facing financial difficulties, urging schools to welcome every student, as each holds the potential to make a significant impact. This story serves as a reminder that resilience, community support, and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements, shedding light on the inspiring potential in every young person when given adequate support.
In summary, Manasa’s journey is a powerful testament to perseverance and illustrates the importance of community support in fostering the potential of youth. His achievements serve as a hopeful reminder that with hard work and encouragement, young people can rise above their challenges.
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