Alka Singh never dreamt she would one day do rock climbing, venture through dense forests, learn horticulture skills, iTaukei rituals and plant trees around Suva.

After all, she came from a small cane farming area in Ba called Varavu.

Being the youngest in a family of two girls, you would expect that she would have been brought up never to venture out with either dad or mum by her side.

Over the past two years, the 16-year-old decided that she needed to gain self-confidence and attain something, while at the same time remaining a humble cane farmer’s daughter.

“My big sister is married so I am the only one at home with my parents,” she said.

“The journey has been filled with a lot of excitement and at the same time, more importantly helped me build self-confidence.”

Ms Singh said she enjoyed being out carrying out tasks in remote areas and in Suva.

“It was hard at times but I persevered and am so happy to receive this Gold Award,” she said.

Her dad Ajay Singh was busy in the farm yesterday but on hand to witness the event was her proud mother, Roshni Lata.

Mrs Lata said she was happy and proud of her daughter’s achievements.

“I encouraged her to go through with it, especially at times when she was finding it difficult.”

Mrs Lata said she would remember this day for the rest of her life.

Edited by Paula Tuvuki

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