Zaina Fazeela Bhatti was filled with emotion as she was admitted to the bar at a special ceremony hosted at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Fiji. This significant achievement comes after overcoming numerous challenges during her studies, which began in August 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, following her degree in human resources and marketing.
During her speech to attendees, Zaina reflected on the rigorous journey she undertook while completing the Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (PDLP) at the University of the South Pacific. Initially reluctant to pursue a career in law due to her fears, it was the encouragement from her sister, Zanuba Bhatti, a practicing lawyer, that motivated her to persevere. “I didn’t want to do it at first because I was really scared. But my sister told me that I had to do it. If not, I wouldn’t be a lawyer, and that pushed me to keep going,” she shared.
Zaina now follows in her sister’s footsteps as the second lawyer in their family, with Zanuba proudly presenting her admission petition during the ceremony. Overcome with joy, Zanuba expressed her pride in Zaina’s achievement, affirming, “This is only the beginning, and like Chief Justice [Salesi Temo] said, she still has a long way to go. I really want to see her excel in her legal profession and engage in pro bono work, helping the community.”
Their sisterly bond deepens further, with discussions now likely to encompass legal matters. Additionally, the family’s dedication to the legal profession continues, as Zaina’s twin sister, Zoya, is currently pursuing law studies in Sydney, indicating a promising legacy in the field.
This inspiring journey highlights the crucial role of familial support and the pursuit of education, especially during tough times. Zaina’s success not only marks a personal milestone but also stands as a symbol of hope for young individuals aspiring to enter the legal profession in Fiji and beyond. As the Bhatti sisters embark on their legal careers, their stories of resilience and commitment to community service resonate strongly, offering encouragement and inspiration to many.
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