Dressed neatly in her navy uniform, Verata, Tailevu lass, Mereseini Sokoilagi had set her sights on becoming an officer in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division.

After she completed her secondary education the 24-year-old ex-Adi Cakobau School student said she wanted a challenge, she looked at doing something different and when the opportunity came there was no turning back.

“I just wanted something that would take me to new heights,” she said.

“Yes, it is not easy. I was not given preferential treatment, but that is what motivated me.

“I knew I had to try harder. If I did not I would not get to where I am.

“Working to be a midshipwoman next year in June, I will do my studies in New Zealand and hopefully become an officer in the navy.”

She stayed in the village until she joined the navy.

She said the doors at the Fijian Naval Division were open and other young women should try it out .

“We need to break away from the mindset that the disciplined forces are not for women,” Ms Sokoilagi said.

“Take up the challenge and prove that women can do anything.”

Ms Sokoilagi was part of the World Maritime Day celebrations at Ratu Sukuna Park, Suva yesterday.

Edited by Percy Kean

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