Shaniya Kumar becomes family’s first female lawyer

Shaniya Kumar is the first and only daughter in her family to become a lawyer.

The 24-year-old from Nadi was sworn in yesterday with strong family support present to witness the milestone achievement.

Ms Kumar became emotional reflecting on her unique position in the family.

“I’m very emotional today. I’m the only daughter that is a lawyer in the family, and I’m indeed very proud,” she said.

Her decision to pursue law wasn't instant but came from her background and life experiences.

“That was definitely from my background, where I come from. And that wasn't a very instant decision that I made,” she said.

“It took a lot of things in my life that had happened for me to take this decision of becoming a lawyer.”

Ms Kumar faced challenges but stressed the importance of self-belief above all else.

“The only advice that I would like to give that has inspired me from my background is to always believe in yourself,” she said.

“Nevertheless, maybe your parents, maybe there is some people in your family that might not believe in you. But you should always believe in yourself, and that should be paramount.”

She is already employed and will practice in civil law and conveyancing matters.

Her message to others who may be watching and feeling inspired is about perseverance.

“Never give up on yourself, never think that it’s the last day,” she said.

“Every day brings new chances in your life, and I indeed believe in that. Because that's what my journey is about.”

Ms Kumar expressed gratitude for her family’s unwavering support throughout her studies.

“I’m very happy for the support that I've gotten from my family,” she said.

Her big family travelled from Nadi to Suva to witness her swearing in ceremony on Friday, demonstrating their pride in her achievement as the family’s first female lawyer.

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