Carried by love, driven by purpose

Nineteen-year-old Jasminda Chand is carried into the High Court by her father, but her story is defined far beyond that moment — by resilience, sacrifice and determination.

The second-year Bachelor of Laws student at the University of the South Pacific (USP), from Viria in Naitasiri, lives with a worsening foot disability that has shaped her daily life since childhood.

She was at the High Court in Suva yesterday as part of a class assignment, quietly observing proceedings alongside fellow law students, taking in the environment she hopes to one day be part of as a lawyer.

Her father, Mahendra Chand, carried her inside, step by step, while her elder sister, Shakuntala, 21, who has given up work to care for her full-time, remained close by her side.

The family drew quiet attention in court, with two prominent Suva lawyers, Barbara Malimali and Tanya Waqanika, taking notice and speaking briefly with them during the visit.

Assistant Minister for Multi-ethnic Affairs Shalend Kumar also made arrangements to drop off the family in Viria after their court visit.

To attend university, Ms Jasminda wakes at 5am daily, prepares her meals, and begins a long journey — travelling up to two hours from Viria on two buses before reaching Suva.

Her sister supports her throughout the day on campus, ensuring she gets through lectures and activities.

“I catch the 6.30am bus sometimes,” she said.
“It takes one to two hours just to reach Suva.”

Her condition worsened during her school years at Vunimono High School, where classmates often helped carry her to classrooms and assisted her during the day.

Despite undergoing surgery in India at age four, her condition remains unresolved.

She is now awaiting approval to travel to Hawaii for further treatment at Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Ms Jasminda holds a disability scholarship through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS). She chooses not to use crutches or a wheelchair.

“If I stay independent, it will help me in future not to depend on others,” she said.

Her journey has not been without loss. Her mother died when she was in class one, but before her passing she asked her daughter to become a lawyer.

“Ever since then, my father has encouraged me to follow that dream,” she said.
“I am fulfilling my mother’s wish.”

Her father, a dairy farmer who milks 11 cows daily on a 90-acre farm, has raised both daughters alone, balancing long hours on the farm with unwavering support for his children.

“Never leave your children aside,” Mr Chand said.
“Walk with them and support their dreams.”

Ms Jasminda now hopes to graduate, secure stable work, and support her father and sister.

The family is also seeking public assistance for travel costs to Hawaii, with donations being made via M-PAiSA 2182743.