Young Leaders Emerge: Shreya and Netani Step Up at Natabua High School

Shreya Shail and Netani Solo Kepa have stepped into their leadership roles as head girl and head boy, respectively, at Natabua High School in Lautoka, marking a significant moment in their final year. The two students were officially inducted last Friday and shared their visions for effective leadership.

Seventeen-year-old Shreya expressed that her understanding of leadership revolves around nurturing those in her charge and fostering teamwork. “To me, leadership means taking care of those in my charge through integrity, responsibility, and most importantly, teamwork,” she stated. Shreya aims to help Natabua High reach its full potential, focusing on both academic excellence and discipline at home and school. Her aspirations extend beyond school, as she hopes to become a neurologist driven by her long-time fascination with the human brain.

Netani’s perspective on leadership emphasizes collaboration over hierarchy. “It is an honour to be chosen as head boy. To me, this role means standing alongside others, guiding and inspiring them,” he said. With aspirations to raise the school’s standards this year, Netani is motivated to make a positive impact, aiming to further his studies at the University of the South Pacific with the goal of becoming a marine biologist.

Both Shreya and Netani draw inspiration from their families—Shreya from her parents’ professional backgrounds in engineering and insurance, and Netani from his family’s guiding support. Their leadership journeys underline a common thread seen among youth leaders in Fiji, who are dedicated to enacting positive change in their communities.

Reflected in the experiences of other student leaders across Fiji, such as Gideon Tegumaila from Saint Thomas High School and Vasitia Waqaninavatu from Waiqele Primary School, their ambitions not only showcase personal aspirations but highlight a collective desire among young leaders to uplift their schools and communities.

As these students take on their leadership roles, they represent hope for a brighter future, illustrating that with vision, determination, and community support, youth can drive transformative changes in educational environments.