An Inspiring Story of Success

“She was about midway through her Year 13 studies last year when she found out she was pregnant.” This inspiring story about Raijieli Salabale appeared in the Fiji Sun on November 23^rd, 2017. “Where most would have perhaps put on hold their education two years or more, Raijieli Salabale did not. She was determined to give her child a better life. And it was all thanks to her parents, her mother especially, that she was able to do it.”

Anela Batisele Liwaki a YFI leaders currently studying for a BSc in Environment and Biology commented that, “Her parents are instrumental in her being successful, they supported & encouraged her all throughout. At times we hear of parents shunning their daughters for teenage pregnancy. But this is testimony that support by parents through rough times, can help a person through obstacles & allow them to reach greater heights and achieve their full potential. Also, when there is a will there is a way, Raijieli wanted a better life for herself, she wasn't discouraged and she worked hard to achieve what she did. That is great and brave because usually, a girl in this situation is stigmatized and usually looked down at by society. But she proved that wrong. She is a symbol of a strong young woman. In my opinion, her story will be great inspiration for young girls who finds themselves in this situation.”

“In 2017, Raijieli returned to complete what she started and she reaped a sweet reward as she was announced the dux of William Cross College in Makoi on Tuesday. She beamed as she held onto her trophy and thought of her mother who was present and her child. Reijili dedicated her award to her parents saying that their support motivated her to return to school. “They always told me to do good and get somewhere in life and study hard,” the 19-year-old said.

Sera Vasunitokolau, 47, said: “Today I am a proud mother because she faced all obstacles and won the dux award.” She said as a mother she would not see herself step aside from her motherly role and continue to show love for her daughter. “She is my only daughter, I would talk to her day and night for her to study hard and strive for a better life. “I have five boys younger than Reijili but for her I always told her that every female has to stand on her own two feet to prove their success.”

 Mili Iga a Research Officer at JICA commented that “A strong support system is essential for any child's growth and wellbeing. Most families have forgotten the base which makes us stronger "love". For it is love that forms a family. Reijeli Salabale has proved that nothing is impossible if one has the determination and perseverance to soar to greater heights."

Reijeli Salabale has proved that nothing is impossible if one has the determination and perseverance to soar to greater heights. https://fijisun.com.fj/2017/11/23/young-mum-dux-proves-it-can-be-done/