Cousins Janice Manueli, 25, and Lorina Filipe, 24, were all with smiles when they were admitted to the Bar at the High Court in Suva yesterday.

The Suva-born pair is from Noa’tou in Rotuma.

They were among 31 lawyers who were admitted yesterday.

Ms Manueli attributed their success to their families.

“I feel so excited today because it has been a really hard journey for the four years at law school, but I guess the trick for law school is having the support of family,” she said.

“I think you can go anywhere when you have great support.”

Although she had her cousin by her side during the ceremony, she wished her late father; Fauoro Sefeti Manueli was alive to see his dream bear fruition.

Mr Manueli died last October.

“It’s been great having each other all along because we have always been supporting each other. We’ve lost so much in our lives, we’ve had our share of laughters and also shed tears together during those years.

“I dedicate my achievement to my father who I lost last year in October. He has been my greatest support in my law school and I wish that he was here,” she said.

Ms Filipe on the other hand, dedicated her achievement to her parents and families. She said it was great to be able to be admitted to the Bar alongside her cousin and best friend.

Edited by Maikeli Seru

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