Among the 24 new lawyers admitted to the bar on Friday, was Gaayetri Bandhana Prasad, who dedicated her achievement to her parents, especially her father.

The 37-year-old of Nasinu said it was her father who motivated her to study.

The former Rishikul Sanatan College student said despite the challenges she was able to balance school and home work. “My father is the person who had the most faith in me and despite my highs and lows he was the only person who motivated me to get this far. He never gave up on me,” Ms Prasad said.

“When I got carried away with my friends he was the one who advised me to get my priorities right and that I would get plenty of time with friends in the future and to concentrate on my education first.

“My dad has always been there for me and is someone who is willing to give me advice when I need it the most. One of the things I realise is that parents will always want what is best for their children.”

She thanked everyone who always supported her.

“I am the first lawyer in my family and this is a proud moment for us. I am glad that my mum was able to witness this day. My dad passed away last year. My family have always looked forward to this day and today I am fulfilling the dream of all my family,” Ms Prasad said.

“When things got tough, I reminded myself why I am doing this and it was the encouragement that I needed. My parents always encouraged me to do my best.

“Our struggle was from a very young age because my dad was a businessman and used to run a shop in Nadera and we were required to actually help out in the family business so it was kind of challenging for us to balance school work and business but I somehow managed.”

She is a former senior officer at Consumer Council of Fiji.

Story By: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj