Manasa Katonivere, an eleventh-grade student at Nabua Secondary School, recently shared an inspiring message with his classmates: hard work is irreplaceable. This year, Manasa encountered challenges while trying to enroll in a secondary school in Suva, coming from a low-income family and facing limited support from his peers. To alleviate the financial burden of his education, his parents invested in a brush cutter for him, allowing him to earn income.
Despite the obstacles he faced, Manasa’s determination led him to meet Nirmal Singh Cheema, a compassionate customer who played a pivotal role in his journey. Reflecting on his circumstances, Manasa said, “Seeing my parents struggle from time to time, I knew I had to level up and become the best version of myself every day.” He spent his days working in the neighborhood, offering lawn-cutting services to generate a steady income.
Thanks to his hard work, Manasa received recognition at a recent awards ceremony for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments in Australia. For him, this acknowledgment represented a crucial milestone in his quest for self-improvement. In turn, Mr. Cheema expressed his commitment to helping others, emphasizing that his support was motivated by recognizing the potential in individuals like Manasa.
He conveyed an important message, stating, “There are many young people like Manasa who need our support and encouragement. We must believe in our children.” He further reinforced the idea that it takes a community to foster a child’s success, urging collective action to uplift youth who aspire to achieve despite financial limitations. He also called on schools to embrace all students, recognizing the unique potential each one holds.
This story highlights the power of resilience and community support in overcoming struggles, showcasing that with hard work and encouragement, young individuals can rise above their circumstances and contribute positively to society.
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