At 31, Rumaana Vualiku Sheikh’s path from a small village in Ba to her graduation day is a remarkable story of resilience and determination. As the eldest of five siblings raised by a single mother, Ms. Sheikh encountered various challenges throughout her journey, but she remained steadfast in her ambitions.
Her recent achievement of a Professional Diploma in Business Management marks the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. After a decade away from school, she managed to balance night shifts with afternoon classes, often battling exhaustion. Despite these obstacles, she stayed focused on completing her diploma.
“There were tough days,” Ms. Sheikh shared. “But I kept reminding myself of why I started and pushed through.”
While working at Mindpearl and later at Fiji Airways, she successfully managed her studies alongside a demanding job. Now that those struggles are behind her, she feels confident and reassured, as the dream she worked tirelessly for has finally come to fruition.
To celebrate this milestone, her siblings traveled from the West to provide their support. Ms. Sheikh’s story transcends academic success; it serves as a powerful example of perseverance.
“My mum has always been my biggest supporter,” she expressed. “Seeing her sacrifices made me want to succeed even more.”
Looking ahead, Ms. Sheikh plans to pursue further studies, potentially aiming for an MBA. Her journey illustrates that it is never too late to chase one’s dreams, regardless of the challenges faced.
For Ms. Sheikh and her family, her graduation signifies not only a personal achievement but also a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.