Losing both parents at a young age did not deter Sesenieli Donu from achieving her dreams.

It only motivated the 24-year-old to work hard.

She hails from Vatukarasa, Nadroga and shares maternal links to Korolevu, Cakaudrove.

Growing up, her childhood was mostly associated with rugby.

And to participate in the pinnacle of the Games and win an Olympic bronze medal, she could not be more proud.

Donu was one of the three players to play in their first international tournament besides the Oceania 7s which was only two weeks before the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“It was breathtaking and mesmerizing.

“It’s my first time to play against the big teams. Meet different kinds of people from different countries,” she said.

Her late father, Ovini Bokini, played for the Nadroga provincial team and later coached their village team. This influenced Donu to continue the legacy he had left behind.

“I’ve been through a lot on my journey to Tokyo. The sacrifices and challenges was when my parents passed away and I was so down with their passing. I couldn’t take it.

“But I told myself that I have to move on and be something good.

“I’ve stayed in Lautoka for almost four years just to play rugby and find a job that can keep me going.

“It was really challenging for me. But I never give up on my dreams. I said to myself one day I’ll wear that white jersey and represent Fiji,” Donu added.

And despite the challenges faced, it was her late mother’s advice that keeps her going.

Her mother passed away when she was 19-years old while dad passed on when she was only nine.

“My Mum always said to never give up and put God first in everything you do.

“I dedicate this bronze medal to my parents, my family back at home for supporting me and not forgetting the people of Fiji facing the pandemic.

She added: “I just want to thank the Almighty God for His Strength and Protection. Without Him we will never get this far. Also want to thank my family for their support and not forgetting the people of Fiji for cheering for us and for their support.”

Donu played for the Lautoka women’s team in the Skipper Cup competition which won the championship last year.

Meanwhile, Team Fiji women’s rugby sevens team will be out of quarantine on August 26.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj