Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student at Nabua Secondary School, recently emphasized a vital lesson for his fellow students: the importance of hard work. This year, Manasa faced challenges while trying to enroll in a secondary school in Suva. Coming from a low-income family, he encountered difficulties finding his place in the school community and received limited support from his peers.
To help fund his education, Manasa’s parents purchased a brush cutter, which he used to generate income. Despite facing hardships, Manasa was determined to succeed. He expressed gratitude for Nirmal Singh Cheema, a compassionate customer who played a significant role in his educational journey. Reflecting on his family’s struggles, Manasa stated, “Seeing my parents struggle from time to time, I knew I had to level up and become the best version of myself every day.”
His efforts would soon bear fruit as he worked tirelessly in the community, offering lawn care services to earn his keep. Manasa expressed deep appreciation for the support he received from Mr. Cheema, recognizing the value of having a mentor during challenging times.
At the recent prizegiving ceremony, Manasa was recognized for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments held in Australia earlier this year. This accolade signifies a pivotal moment in his pursuit of personal growth.
Mr. Cheema shared that his support was not a mere act of charity, but rather an acknowledgment of Manasa’s potential. He encouraged others to look for similar opportunities to support young individuals in need, reinforcing the idea that it takes a community to nurture and raise children.
“The message I want to share is that there are many young people like Manasa who need our support and encouragement. We must believe in our children,” said Mr. Cheema. He urged schools to embrace every student, emphasizing that each one has the potential to make a difference.
This inspiring story of determination and community support serves as a reminder that hard work, combined with mentorship and belief in one’s potential, can lead to remarkable achievements.
Summary: Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student, overcame challenges of poverty and limited support by working hard and receiving mentorship from Nirmal Singh Cheema. Recognized for his achievements in sports, he embodies the values of perseverance and community support, encouraging others to believe in and uplift young individuals striving for success.
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