Raina Ram who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science in Gujarat, India, is now on her final semester and recalls the moment that shaped her educational journey after she became a recipient of the Westpac Women and Girls Education Grant in 2015.
Ram was inspired to apply for the grant and later encouraged by her mother Renuka Ram to participate in the Primary School category.
Her essay on animal cruelty definitely stood out; making her one of 30 females to receive the grant that year.
She says the grant is the foundational support that helped pave a way forward in her educational journey and after graduating from secondary school in Fiji.
Raina says specialising in Forensic Science allowed her to delve into her passion for science and justice even though the challenging journey from Fiji to India.
When asked what her advice would be to women and young girls in Fiji, Raina says women and girls should embrace the opportunity with courage and confidence.
She says taking a chance on such opportunities can be life-changing because it’s now or never and if you keep holding yourself back you will not be able to see the fruitful opportunities.
She has also encouraged people to believe in their potential, face challenges head-on and step out of your comfort zone.
Applications for the 2024 Westpac Women and Girls Education Grant will close on 31st July 2024.
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