Taraiwini aims to stir up a career in cooking

Taraiwini Senikuraciri, the head girl at Lautoka Special School for Education (LSSE), dreams of one day becoming a chef.

The Batiri native from Seaqaqa, Macuata, graduated at the Girmit Centre Hall in Lautoka yesterday, walking away with the Student of the Year Award along with seven other accolades.

During her two years at LSSE, Taraiwini gained skills in cooking, sewing, tie-and-dye, screen printing, singing, and dancing.

A former student of Lautoka Methodist School, she said she hopes to use her skills to make a difference in people’s lives.

“I am interested in becoming a chef at a hotel and aspire to help other people achieve their goals in life,” she said.

LSSE Parent Guardian Friends Association president, Moritikei Senikuraciri, praised the school’s work-ready programme, which allowed Taraiwini to gain practical experience.

She works with the Ronald McDonald charity program, delivering food to Lautoka Aspen-managed Hospital.

“The LSSE has provided work opportunities for my daughter and helped her develop essential skills,” Mr Senikuraciri said.

“I will motivate her to start a catering business and support us.”

The awards Taraiwini received include:

·        Student of the Year;

·        Work Ready Programme Award;

·        Appreciation Award for Learning Sign Language;

·        Leadership Award;

·        Star Performer of the Year;

·        Certificate of Positive Attitude;

·        Exemplary Efforts Award; and

·        Talent Award in Dancing