Waiwalu Dedicates Degree To Late Mother
Be strong and never give up because you are nearly there.
These were the words of Josivini Waiwalu’s mother, Jowana Nasakure, before she passed away late last year.
It was just months away from seeing her daughter receive her degree.
The 22-year-old graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Environmental Management from the University of the South Pacific (USP) on Thursday.
From left: Father Etuate Bose, Josivini Waiwalu (holding a photoframe of their mother Jowana Nasakure) sister Jokaveti Waiwalu and brother Mosese Waiwalu after the University of the South Pacific graduation event at the FMF Gymnasium, Laucala Bay on May 12, 2022. Photo: Leon Lord
Since her mother could be present, she had a photo of her mum framed for the occasion.
“I only wish my beautiful mother was here to celebrate this momentous occasion with me,” she said.
“This is an unforgettable day because it reminds me of the many good and bad days including fieldwork reports, lab classes and tutorials. I vividly remember struggling to get to do those tasks in time.
“The piece of paper I hold is a stepping stone to achieving better things in years to come.”
The Tailevu lass was able to follow her dream after being sponsored by the Fijian Government through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Services.
As the eldest daughter in her family, Ms Waiwalu said she had to take up her mother’s role to provide for her family, especially her younger siblings.
“Only God knows how I felt when it comes to thinking of my mother knowing that she has been there for us throughout her life.
“I had to be strong for them and my dad. Taking up the role of my mother continues to be a challenge, especially when trying your utmost best to provide for my siblings.”
She dedicated her achievement to her late mother.
“This achievement is dedicated to my queen who was there for me for the past 21 years and eight months because if it wasn’t for her words of encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am” Ms Waiwalu said.
“This is also dedicated to everyone in my family and to my friends.”
Ms Waiwalu is now pursuing her Postgraduate Diploma in Climate Change.
“In everything you do, make sure you do it as if it is your last attempt and do not forget to pray about it,” she said.
