Graduate dedicates third certificate to late mother

The memory of his late mother and the support of his father gave 22-year-old Epeli Salele Tikoyawa the strength to leave his family behind and complete his third certificate.

Mr Tikoyawa, from Lomati, Nabukelevu in Kadavu with maternal links to Qalikarua in Matuku, Lau, graduated with a Certificate in Community Health (Addressing HIV and AIDS in Fiji) Level 3 after completing 18 weeks of training while balancing work and family responsibilities.

Currently working as an assistant protocol coordinator with the UN Office for Leadership and Management, Mr Tikoyawa said receiving his certificate was an emotional and rewarding moment after the challenges he faced during his studies.

“I’m really happy receiving this certificate because I know that all the challenges and struggles and leaving my family back at home that I went through has been paid off today,” he said.

One of his biggest challenges was leaving his family in Labasa to attend classes at the Nausori Campus.

Travelling between areas and being away from his family for the 18-week programme was difficult, particularly while managing his work responsibilities.

Balancing work and studies required confidence, discipline and proper time management, Mr Tikoyawa said.

He credited his faith for helping him overcome the challenges and remain focused on completing his training.

For Mr Tikoyawa, his achievement was also a tribute to his late mother, whom he believed would have been proud to see him graduate with his third certificate.

He dedicated the achievement to his father, whom he described as his hero, and to his mother, who he said continued to inspire him despite no longer being with him.

“My mum who is in heaven, even though she’s not here, but she’ll be proud that I’ve received my third certificate of what I’m doing and achieving,” he said.

He also acknowledged his supportive sisters, family members and everyone who had encouraged him throughout his journey.

Mr Tikoyawa hopes his experience will encourage other young people to remain committed to their goals despite the challenges they may face.

His message to young people is based on the faith that helped him complete his own journey.

“If you have faith, keep that faith because only faith will take you to places that you don’t want to go,” Mr Tikoyawa said.

For Mr Tikoyawa, the certificate is a tribute to his family, especially his late mother, and the sacrifices that helped him reach the milestone.