“Hard Work Pays Off: A Student’s Inspiring Journey”

Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student at Nabua Secondary School, recently delivered a powerful message to his fellow students: dedication and hard work are irreplaceable. Earlier this year, Manasa faced significant challenges in enrolling at a secondary school in Suva, grappling with his background from a low-income family and a lack of support from classmates. To aid in funding his education, his parents invested in a brush cutter, which enabled him to earn some extra income.

Despite these obstacles, Manasa’s determination shone through, particularly thanks to the encouragement of a supportive customer, Nirmal Singh Cheema. Reflecting on his journey, Manasa shared the impact of his parents’ struggles on his ambitions: “Seeing my parents struggle at times motivated me to improve myself continuously.”

Manasa spent countless hours using the brush cutter around the neighborhood, cutting grass to support his education, and he expressed gratitude for Mr. Cheema’s guidance throughout this journey. At a recent prizegiving ceremony, he was honored for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments in Australia, which he recognized as an important milestone on his path to self-improvement.

Mr. Cheema emphasized that his support stems from recognizing the potential within young individuals like Manasa. He urged community members to extend their hands to children in need and encouraged schools to embrace every student, reminding them that each child possesses the capacity to make a positive impact.

Manasa’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and community support, encouraging others to overcome their circumstances and pursue their dreams. It highlights the importance of mentorship and the belief that with the right encouragement, every young person can succeed.

In summary, Manasa Katonivere’s journey reflects the transformative power of perseverance and community support, reminding us all of the potential that lies within every student when hard work is coupled with encouragement and belief in their abilities.