Yabaki’s perseverance earns top recruit honour

Private Mereani Yabaki refused to let illness or the demands of military training stop her from reaching her goal — a determination that earned her the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Best All-Around Recruit award on Friday.

The Tailevu woman received the top honour after completing 12 weeks of demanding training, which tested her perseverance, discipline and commitment.

For Private Yabaki, pushing through the difficult days meant constantly reminding herself why she had started.

“I kept telling myself ‘I’m not giving up or letting sickness stop me from attending my training,” she said.

She described the 12-week journey as one filled with God’s blessings and provision.

“The experience taught me the importance of being prepared and ready to respond whenever and wherever I am needed.”

Despite the challenges, Private Yabaki remained determined to complete her training.

She said the difficulties she encountered ultimately strengthened her resolve and contributed to her achievement as Best All-Around Recruit.

Family behind her journey

Private Yabaki credited her parents, family and aunties for standing by her and supporting her throughout the training.

Their support, coupled with her determination to keep going despite illness and the demands of training, helped carry her through the 12-week journey.

For Private Yabaki, the experience reinforced the value of perseverance, preparation and commitment when confronted with challenges.

Her achievement also carries a simple message: difficult circumstances do not have to stand in the way of reaching a goal.