Gideon Tegumaila has taken on the responsibility of head boy at Saint Thomas High School in Lautoka, having been elected after much anticipation through prayer and fasting during the previous year. With fellow student Olive Bennion named as head girl, Gideon now steps into a leadership role that he embraces with a strong sense of purpose.
Hailing from Lawaki Village in Yasawa and the youngest of three siblings, Gideon has been actively involved in school activities, notably training as a rugby referee during Year 11. He utilized this skill in his school’s preparations for the Deans Trophy competition and continued to enhance his refereeing abilities within the Yasawa Rugby Union, where he is recognized as one of Lautoka’s referees for the prestigious Skipper Cup.
Gideon believes that true leadership is defined by selflessness, stating, “To me, true leadership is sacrificing your life for others.” He aims to make an impact not just in his school but also in the broader community and his family, expressing gratitude to those who voted for him based on his sacrifices. He highlights the struggles faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds and has committed to using his earnings from refereeing to help feed underprivileged peers and support his family.
His father’s work as a farmer and his mother’s role as a housekeeper have instilled a strong work ethic in Gideon, who shares how he took on additional responsibilities during holidays, even foregoing government assistance to support his education. He and his mother sold fish at the market to finance his school supplies, showcasing his proactive approach to leadership and responsibility.
Gideon’s aspirations extend beyond his current role; he hopes to become a pilot and sees his position as a platform to tackle social issues, particularly the fight against drug abuse in schools. He intends to rally support from teachers and peers to address these challenges.
This story of Gideon aligns with other inspiring narratives of youth leadership emerging across Fiji. Similar to Vasitia Waqaninavatu, who recently became head girl at Waiqele Primary School, and Isoa Dakunimata, the new head boy at Marist Brothers High School, Gideon’s ambition reflects a shared desire among young leaders in Fiji to create positive change in their communities.
The leadership journeys of these students underscore the resilience and determination found among youth in Fiji. They not only inspire their peers but also embody hope for a brighter future, demonstrating that with dedication, young leaders can foster a supportive and nurturing environment for others.
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