Against all odds: 15-year-old to fly Fiji’s flag in AFL tournament

15-year-old Manasa Bukawaqa Katonivere is preparing for an opportunity he could have only dreamed of months ago.

Soon, he will be on a plane to Brisbane, representing Fiji in the AFL Under-17 Rugby Tournament — an incredible achievement for a young man who, earlier this year, faced significant challenges just trying to find a secondary school.

Katonivere’s journey took a turn when a community member Nirmal Singh stepped in when Katonivere’s parents could not find an available spot in Suva schools.

fijivillage News had highlighted this year that Katonivere had gone to Singh’s house during the school holidays to cut grass to help support his education.

Katonivere had told Singh of the challenges he was facing in securing a spot in a high school.

School after school had rejected his enrollment, until Singh finally met with Nabua Secondary School’s principal, Rajnesh Lingam.

Lingam recognized Katonivere’s potential and made space for him despite the school’s crowded classes.

Singh says since joining Nabua Secondary, Katonivere has flourished.

He says not only has he excelled academically, earning the title of prefect but he has also become an essential player on the Deans Under 17 rugby team.

Singh, who helped financially support Katonivere’s schooling, beams with pride at how far he has come.

Singh says it's been a joy to see him succeed.

He says Katonivere’s achievements would not have been possible without the community that rallied around him including Mele Ataogo-Radrodro and Gangaram Gounder who offered financial assistance, ensuring that he had everything he needed for his education.

Singh there are many young people like Katonivere who just need a chance and we should open doors for them and give them hope.

He says Katonivere’s journey is a powerful call to action to believe in our youth, support them in their dreams and recognize that every child has the potential to succeed when given the opportunity.