At 31, Rumaana Vualiku Sheikh’s path from a small village in Ba to her graduation day showcases her resilience and determination. As the eldest of five siblings raised by a single mother, Ms. Sheikh encountered numerous obstacles. However, she remained committed to her goals.
Achieving a Professional Diploma in Business Management signifies the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice, especially since she returned to school after a ten-year break, often juggling night shifts with afternoon classes while coping with fatigue. Despite the challenges, she maintained her focus on completing her diploma.
“There were tough days,” she shared. “But I kept reminding myself of why I started and pushed through.”
While working at Mindpearl and then at Fiji Airways, Ms. Sheikh managed to balance her studies with a demanding job. With those struggles behind her, she feels confident and fulfilled, having turned the dream she worked tirelessly for into a reality.
Her siblings traveled from the West to support her and celebrate this significant milestone. Ms. Sheikh’s story goes beyond academic success; it serves as a strong testament to perseverance.
“My mum has always been my biggest supporter,” she mentioned. “Seeing her sacrifices made me want to succeed even more.”
Looking ahead, Ms. Sheikh has plans to further her education, potentially pursuing an MBA. Her journey illustrates that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams, regardless of the obstacles faced along the way.
For Ms. Sheikh and her family, her graduation is not merely a personal triumph but also a source of hope and inspiration.