Determination leads Tuvaluan mother to police career

What began as a daily struggle to put food on the table has become a powerful story of courage and determination for newly graduated Tuvalu Police recruit Hannah Saitala.

Once a stay-at-home mother facing financial uncertainty, Ms Saitala is now a fully trained police officer after successfully completing the Fiji Police Force Basic Recruit Course, Batch 68, at the Fiji Police Academy.

Ms Saitala was among 10 Tuvaluan recruits who graduated alongside 139 others after 16 weeks of physically and mentally demanding training.

Describing the course as one of the toughest journeys of her life, she said the transformation from single parent to police officer did not come easy.

“It was a very challenging journey with my brothers and sisters and the nine Tuvaluan recruits who came with me,” she said.

“We had late nights and hard lessons to learn, but it was all worth the commitment we gave.”

Before joining the Tuvalu Police Service, Ms Saitala said her life was far removed from parade grounds and drills. As a single mother of two, she stayed at home while struggling to secure stable employment to support her children.

“Single parenting was tough, but I had to stand up for myself,” she said. “With the support system I had, I was able to accomplish my dream.”

Ms Saitala had already completed eight months of service with the Tuvalu Police before being selected for training in Fiji, a milestone she described as life-changing.

Although Fiji was familiar to her, having been born and raised here before returning to Tuvalu, the recruit course marked a defining chapter in her personal and professional journey.

Reflecting on her transformation, Ms Saitala encouraged young people, especially women and single parents, to believe in their potential.

“Believe that you can overcome any challenge or circumstance you face in life,” she said.

“Don’t let anyone else decide for you. Remember your humble beginnings and don’t forget God in everything you do.”

She also thanked her parents, family, fellow recruits from Tuvalu and Fiji, and the staff and instructors of the Fiji Police Academy.

“Without them, we wouldn’t become police officers or professionals,” Ms Saitala said.

“We made it, and it was totally worth it.”