The Dux of Rishikul Sanatan College, Joshleen Rita Kumar, was emotional when her father accompanied her to receive the main award during the college’s annual graduation ceremony yesterday.

Nineteen-year-old Joshleen said the Dux Award was one step closer for her to live her father’s dream of becoming a lawyer one day.

Her father, Jai Anand Kumar of Suva, a bank officer with the Fiji Development Bank, had wanted to become a lawyer back then.

But because of financial difficulties, he could not pursue his career in law.

Mr Kumar believes that his daughter, the eldest of two, will be a lawyer and make him proud one day.

“I am really proud that she has achieved such a big award and she is now striving to become a lawyer.

“I was less fortunate when I was young as it was my dream to become a lawyer but I am happy to see that my daughter is going to live my dream.

“Due to financial difficulties I was not able to fulfil my dreams but I will do everything possible for her to achieve her dream.

“I am proud of her. She is very a good and modest girl who has never let us down in any circumstances.

“When raising her; I had never realised that I am raising a dux of such a prestigious school,” Mr Kumar said.

Joshleen said she had only worked hard as she was motivated by her family and teachers but the dux award was beyond her expectation.

“I did not expect the Dux Award. I was not competing with anyone; I only concentrated on coming to school and learn as much as I can. I had the support of my parents who pushed me and encouraged me to study and keep myself focused.

“Everyone kept on telling me that I can do better and that is what got me motivated to keep striving for better marks. I want to be a good role model to my brother who is in Year 12.

“I want to set an example for him to keep working hard and strive for the dux award next year too,” Joshleen said.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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