With dreams tied to both the pool and the skies, 12-year-old Tahlia Turagabaleti is making waves in competitive swimming, supported by a family grounded in the aviation industry.
Turagabaleti, who represented Drasa Avenue School at the National Schools Age Group Swimming Championships, won gold in the 50 metres, 100 metres and 200 metres breaststroke events, as well as the 50 metres butterfly.
She says her love for swimming was inspired by her two older brothers, who are also swimmers and encouraged her to take up the sport.
She says training has been tough at times, but she remains grateful for the support of her family, adding that balancing school, training and faith has helped her stay focused and disciplined.
She also encouraged young athletes to listen to their parents, remain obedient and continue working hard to achieve their goals.
When asked about her future, the 12-year-old says she hopes to continue swimming but also dreams of working in aviation like her mother, connecting her passion for sport with her family's life in the skies.
Her mother, Vilimaina Turagabaleti, works as cabin crew, while her father, Semisi Turagabaleti, is an engineer in the aviation industry.
Vilimaina Turagabaleti says managing shift work and family responsibilities has not been easy, but they remain committed to supporting their daughter's sporting journey.
She says the family's aviation work schedules can sometimes keep them away from home, but they are grateful that other parents, along with the school, club and close-knit community, often step in to support the children when needed.
She adds that swimming has helped build discipline, time-management skills and character in her daughter, and she is proud of her growth both in and out of the pool.
