Beans for lunch, dreams for tomorrow: Loraini’s sacrifices pay off

Hunger, long travel and sacrifice shaped the university journey of Loraini Waqaniloloma, who often attended classes without breakfast and survived on beans for lunch while pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Fisheries.

Yesterday, the young woman from Soa, Nakorotubu in Ra proudly graduated during the Fiji National University ceremony at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva.

After attending Wainibuka Secondary School as a day scholar, Ms Waqaniloloma spent three years living in a hostel far from her village, adjusting to a completely new environment.

The daily struggles tested both her strength and determination.

“It was not an easy journey, I am so grateful and excited that all my hard work, struggles and sacrifice paid off today,” she said.

Ms Waqaniloloma described hostel life as “very challenging”, with long days starting early in the morning and ending late at night.

“Waking up early and going all the way to Koronivia campus for class was not easy,” she said.

“During lunch hour, we usually go to the stall and buy beans to have for our lunch.”

Being away from her parents added to the emotional burden.

Back in the village, her mother managed the home while her father worked as a farmer, both making sacrifices to support her education.

Their perseverance became her greatest source of motivation.

“Seeing my parents’ hard work encouraged me, that motivated me for this big day and I’ve made it,” she said.

Despite moments of doubt, Ms Waqaniloloma said she refused to give up, holding onto her dream of graduating not only for herself, but also for her family.

She dedicated her achievement to her parents, supporters and lecturers from the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Now holding her degree, Ms Waqaniloloma hopes her story inspires others, especially young people who may have left school, to believe success is still possible.

“Nothing is impossible, everything is possible when your heart is willing as God is always there with you,” she said.