Young people should embrace vision, courage and service to continue building Fiji's future, Tavua College student Sosiceni Lomani says while reflecting on the legacy of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna.
Speaking at the National Celebration Commemorating the Life of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna in Lautoka during an Oratory Competition as the Tavua Education District representative, Lomani told attendees that Fiji's progress today is the result of the vision and leadership of pioneers such as Ratu Sukuna.
Lomani says vision is having a clear picture of the future, while courage is the ability to act despite fear.
Insert: Lomani on Ratu Sukuna quote 29 May 26
He says Fiji was once just a dream and a vision, and leaders such as Ratu Sukuna worked to ensure greater participation, representation and opportunities for Fijians during the colonial era.
Lomani described Ratu Sukuna as a distinguished scholar, soldier and statesman who helped lay the foundation for Fiji's economic development.
He said Sukuna's leadership demonstrated that real progress requires patience, sacrifice, wisdom and determination.
Lomani also highlighted the challenges Ratu Sukuna faced, including colonial rule, limited educational opportunities and pressures on indigenous land and traditions.
He said despite those challenges, Sukuna worked to improve education, promote unity and protect the identity of indigenous Fijians while guiding the nation towards progress.
According to Lomani, one of Sukuna's lasting contributions was fostering understanding and cooperation among Fiji's different ethnic communities.
He also shared a quote attributed to Ratu Sukuna, saying, "If other communities are poor, we too remain poor. If they prosper, we will also prosper."
Lomani said Sukuna believed in the power of unity in diversity, a vision that continues to resonate in Fiji today.
He encouraged young people to become leaders with both vision and courage, saying that leadership requires action and commitment to serving others.
The student leader concluded by urging young Fijians to continue building on the foundations laid by leaders such as Ratu Sukuna through service, unity and perseverance.
