Sereima Tuvou, a 24-year-old from Nadroga, is poised to celebrate a significant achievement as she prepares to graduate from the University of the South Pacific in April after four years of dedicated study. Her journey has not been without challenges, but her resilience and commitment have driven her forward.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Tuvou acknowledges the difficulties she faced, but credits her family’s support as a cornerstone in her success. “Life growing up was tough, but with the presence of our loved ones, we moved forward together,” she remarked, expressing gratitude to her parents for instilling important values and lessons in her life.

Initially aspiring to be a teacher, Tuvou’s interests shifted towards finance during her high school years. “In high school, I opted to study accounting as one of my subjects, and I never regretted it,” she shared. Her passion for numbers and financial transactions led her to pursue a degree in accounting and international business marketing, a choice that solidified her career path.

As graduation approaches, Tuvou feels a mix of excitement and emotion. “I want to cry at the same time. I know I’m no longer stressing,” she stated, looking forward to the support of her family and friends on her special day.

In her next five years, she aims to secure employment at an accounting firm, continue her studies, and inspire younger generations to pursue their goals. Her advice for students facing challenges is simple yet profound: “Never give up and keep moving forward. Accounting can be tough, but with perseverance, you can reach the success you’re looking for.”

Tuvou’s journey mirrors that of other recent graduates, such as Shelly Tokalauvere from Fiji National University, who also recognized the importance of resilience and family support in achieving academic success. Both women serve as inspirations, showcasing that hard work and persistence pay off, and depicting a hopeful future for young graduates eager to make their mark in the world.

This celebration of achievement reinforces the message that despite the hurdles faced in education, determination and a strong support network can guide individuals toward success.