Milise Jikowale looked at the end picture when she left her daughters behind to study in Samoa for six months.

It was not an easy decision for any caring parent, but she knew the sacrifice would ensure a better future for her family.

Yesterday, the 26-year-old was one of the 98 graduates from the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).

She graduated with a Certificate III in Cookery.

When she left Fiji for Samoa, her youngest daughter, Esther Unaisi Waqa, was four months old.

“Leaving my daughters was one of the hardest things I had to do as a mother, but I knew I had to do it for them.

“I know that even though it was tough, with some of us being working mothers and fathers doing most of the study, the opportunity was rewarding,” Ms Jikowale said.

Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC ) graduates at the Suva Civic Centre, on September 11, 2023. Photo: Leon Lord

“I stand here today (yesterday) filled with a great sense of happiness and accomplishment.

“Not only has this day reminded me that I can do it, but it also inspired me to continue to strive towards being the best version of myself.”

Ms Jikowale thanked the Australian government for the opportunity, and her family and friends for their continuous support.

She hails from Waciwaci Village in Lakeba, Lau, with maternal links to Muaira Village in Fulaga.

“For most of us in our batch, it was the first time we boarded a plane and it was one to remember because for me, it was the first time

I learned how to put a seatbelt on in a plane.

“Six months flew by for me. I was fortunate to be considered for this opportunity, and the institution lived up to its core values with the delivery of a quality learning experience.”

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