From the long days of waking up before dawn to making roti parcels to sell during the week just to cover for her bus fare, and selling cakes and bundles of dalo to help pay for her school fees, 32-year-old Salanieta Rawalai has now graduated with a Certificate in Food and Beverage, a Certificate in Housekeeping, and a Certificate in Front Office from the Service Pro International Tourism and Hospitality Institute (SITHI).
It was an emotional and proud moment for her as she dedicated her Outstanding Award for Best Food and Beverage Student to the children’s club back in her home village of Tubalevu, Namara, Tailevu.
Rawalai, the second youngest among five siblings, says the children’s club was her main motivation to persevere through the challenges and complete her studies, making the long journey worthwhile.
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While speaking to fijivillage News, Rawalai shared the difficulties of balancing her studies with caring for her niece, nephew, and elderly father.
She says the support and memories she shared with friends, teachers, and colleagues at SITHI made the experience special.
She adds that her main goal now is to secure a good job in the hotel industry to further support her family back in the village.
Rawalai is encouraging young people to take advantage of every opportunity life offers and to always give their best effort.
