A candle light was the only source of light Milika Suranamasi had when preparing for her examinations in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Winston.

The damage done to her family home in Drasavanakula Settlement, left Milika and her family without electricity for a number of days.

That did not deter the final year graduate from Drasa Secondary School in attaining the Dux award at the school’s prizegiving yesterday in Drasa, Lautoka.

Emotional mum, Kalesita Marama, was thrilled about her daughter’s accomplishment knowing she had overcome the obstacles in life to receive the highest award at secondary level.

“I am proud of my daughter,” she said tearfully.

“I am just a domestic housewife and my husband is a causal worker and we struggle but I just want to thank the Lord today.”

Milika said: “Even though Cyclone Winston damaged my house, I still thank the Lord for protecting us,” she said.

“I used candles to study when I had to prepare for my exams.”

The Vanua Levu native was content about her achievement.

“I feel happy and great and I thought that I would never achieve this award,” she said.

Last year, Milika sat for the Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination (FY12CE) and scored 84/100 in English, 98/100 in mathematics, 89/100 in computer, 83/100 in Accounting and 86/100 Economics.

This year, Milika was awarded first place in her Year 13B Arts class and received awards in mathematics, accounting and economics.

She acknowledged her parents for their continuous support throughout the academic year.

Next year, she plans to further her studies in International Business Marketing at the University of the South Pacific.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback: nicolette.chambers@fijisun.com.fj