Memories of her mother came flashing before Rejieli Narosa when she was named student of the year during the Sigatoka Methodist College prizegiving ceremony on Wednesday.

It was an emotional day for Rejieli as she stood next to her father, Joji Navabale, her aunts and teacher. But it was her mother, who died of breast cancer last month, who Rejieli missed most.

“My mum died at the hands of breast cancer just before my external exams this year,” the school headgirl said.

After her mother’s death she took over duties because her elder sister was studying in Suva.

Rejieli attributed her success to her mother who was her motivation.

“I have to be strong to be able to take the future. I have many dreams to accomplish and all I dedicate to my mother,” Rejieli said.

The Year 13 student of Nasaucoko, Sigatoka also bagged awards for best netball player, best sports woman, outstanding student of the year and scoring highest in the Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination.

Mr Navabale was proud of his daughter’s achievement and said she continued to do wonders in the family despite the tough times.

Rejieli plays netball for the Navosa Netball team. She is also a member of the Fiji Under-20 squad.

She plans to further her studies in law next year.

The school Dux was awarded to two students – Ravi Tappoo as Arts Dux, and Shreya Kumar as Science Dux.

Ravi’s grandfather, Kanti Tappoo, who was also chief guest, stood proud as he handed over the award. Mr Tappoo is a former student and Ravi was the fourth generation member of his family to study at the college.

Ravi said: “I am proud to be completing my college year where my grandfather was, and that being a dux too.”

He is looking to go abroad to further his studies.

He won awards for leadership – headboy, 100 points for discipline, highest marks in computer and accounting.

Science Dux Shreya wishes to pursue her studies in MBBS at a local institute here.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback: arishma.narayan@fijisun.com.fj