Manasa Katonivere, a Year 11 student at Nabua Secondary School, delivered an inspiring message to his fellow students about the importance of hard work. Overcoming challenges in enrolling in a secondary school in Suva earlier this year, Manasa hails from a low-income family and initially struggled with support from peers.
To aid his education, Manasa’s parents invested in a brush cutter, which he utilized to earn income by offering grass-cutting services in the neighborhood. Reflecting on his journey, Manasa acknowledged the hardships his parents faced: “Seeing my parents struggle from time to time made me determined to improve myself every day,” he remarked.
A pivotal figure in his journey, a customer named Nirmal Singh Cheema, provided invaluable support, which Manasa appreciates deeply. During a prizegiving ceremony, he was recognized for his participation in the AFL Under-17 tournaments in Australia, marking a significant achievement in his efforts to better himself.
Mr. Cheema emphasized the importance of recognizing potential in young individuals like Manasa. He stated, “The message I want to share is that many young people need our support. We must believe in our children.” He echoed the age-old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child,” urging the community to assist those aspiring to succeed despite financial difficulties. Cheema also called on schools to welcome every student, highlighting their potential to contribute positively to society.
This story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that community support and hard work can have on individuals striving to overcome obstacles.
Summary: Manasa Katonivere, a student overcoming adversity with the help of his family and community, emphasizes hard work’s importance while being recognized for his achievements in sports. Nirmal Singh Cheema, a supporter, advocates for helping young people reach their potential and encourages schools to not deny students based on circumstances.
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