Earlier this year, Salote Rosivulavula wrote in her promise book, ‘I will be the dux of Ratu Finau Secondary School’ and that came true last Friday.

The Year 13 student was emotional when she received the school’s Dux Shield she had made the sacrifices and worked so hard for.

Salote, 19, dedicated her achievement to her mother, Silipa Raradoka, who raised her single-handedly.

Salote is from Tubou Village on Lakeba Island in Lau.

“Before the school year started, I wrote my goal to be the dux in my promise book and I am happy that I was able to achieve it,” she said.

“It was not an easy journey, but with dedication and perseverance, I have come this far. When things got tough, I remained calm to think clearly. I always remind myself who I was doing it for. My mother has always been there for me. She ensured that I do my best in everything I do, and I owe her a lot.”

Salote hopes to perform well in her external examination to secure a scholarship to study at the Fiji National University next year.

“While growing up, whenever anyone asked me what I wanted to become, I always told them that I wanted to be a civil engineer, and that is what I plan to pursue next year,” she said.

“I want to make my mother proud, and I know that she is. I understand that she sacrificed a lot for me because I am her only child.”

Proud mum Ms Raradoka expressed her joy in Salote’s achievement.

“I have always encouraged her since the beginning of this year that she could be the dux of the school if she tried her best, and she did it,” the emotional mother said.

“She is the first dux in our family, and I want to thank the sub-clan Vatuwaqa for always sponsoring the dux by providing a laptop and a $300.”

Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj