The adage, ‘Third time’s a charm’, is a testament to human tenacity and the relentless pursuit of success despite challenging circumstances. This saying certainly rings true for Adi Varanisese Likuyameyame Ravula Rayacarogo, a young woman who has faced life’s difficulties with resilience and perseverance in an effort to achieve her dreams.
Born in Visa in Vugalei, Tailevu, 25-year-old police constable Rayacarogo has familial ties to Vanuabalavu in Lau. Raised by her grandmother after her parents’ separation, Rayacarogo had to fend for herself from a young age.
She enrolled for a trade diploma in customs services at the Fiji National University in 2018, after her primary and secondary education. However, financial constraints cut her education short. Despite recurrent job rejections, she didn’t give up.
Opportunity finally struck when Rayacarogo learned about ongoing police recruitments. Despite two rejections, she persisted and was successful on her third attempt. Beginning her training in Nasova on February 25 this year, she faced the challenge with faith and determination, guided by her grandmother.
On June 14, after 16 weeks of rigorous training, Rayacarogo graduated alongside 223 men and women from Fiji and Tuvalu at the Fiji Police Training Academy in Nasova.
Becoming a police officer was a childhood dream for Rayacarogo, although she was initially reluctant due to the job’s height requirements. However, her late grandfather’s encouragement kept her motivated.
A turning point for Rayacarogo was during her graduation parade — a pleasurable occasion for her as her parents reunited after a six-year separation. This joyful reconciliation was a much-awaited dream for Rayacarogo, and their presence was a source of immense happiness.
Rayacarogo’s story embodies the featured maxim: “If one door closes, another will open”. With dreams of advancing in rank to a corporal or sergeant in the next decade, she remains an encouraging example of overcoming rejection and persisting towards achieving one’s goals.