Saera Bibi proudly stepped forward yesterday.

The 17-year-old became the first girl to win an award at Ratu Kadavulevu School cadet passing-out parade in Lodoni.

As an Indo-Fijian in a predominantly iTaukei boys’ school, her achievement was significant. There are only 10 girls in a roll of more than 700 students. Saera is one of two Indo-Fijians.

She was awarded the Best Cadet in Drill.

“I am so proud to achieve an award like this and to receive it in a boys-dominated school.”

“This is my fourth year in the school and I have learned a lot from my brothers here in school, they respect me and I am glad that my parents send me to the right school.”

Saera Bibi said at first she thought she wouldn’t be able to survive in a male-dominated school. “When I look back, I have had a brilliant time here,” she said.

“I wouldn’t have succeeded without the boys’ support; they have been motivating me since day one, they are my brothers and we all helped to achieve this cadet parade today (yesterday) which I am forever thankful for,” she said.

“I entered the school three years ago as a school girl but today (yesterday) I am still a school girl but with more vision and dreams to accomplish better things and the school has taught me well,” she said.

Saera challenges all Indo-Fijian girls out there to always strive for higher things and work towards their dream.

Her mother Maria Bibi was one of the proud parents in the school to witness her daughter’s achievements.

“I am so proud of her and I am glad that she came this far; I will continue to support her in every way possible so she can keep succeeding in life,” she said.

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