From teen Mum to top student

Eliza Anna Mongston’s life is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and unwavering love.

Born and raised in the small settlement of Taunovo in Serua, Eliza was no stranger to hardship.

Her parents, both hardworking and devoted, in – stilled in her the value of perseverance-a lesson that would shape her future.

They now live at Lepanoni Settlement, but their foundation of strength and love continues to guide them.

Eliza grew up with dreams as expansive as the sky, knowing that education was the pathway to a brighter future.

Becoming a teen mother

However, at 18, everything came crashing down. Eliza discovered she was pregnant. Fear, uncertainty, and confusion consumed her.

A teenage girl with a baby on the way, she felt lost, unsure of how to navigate this overwhelming new chapter of her life.

“When I found out, I was scared. I didn’t know how I would cope, and I didn’t know how others would judge me,” she recalls.

The news shocked her family. Her parents, heartbroken not just for her but for the struggles she would face, were also fearful of the harsh judgment from their community.

Eliza had always been a bright student, full of promise. Now, she faced the impossible task of balancing the roles of mother and student.

As a Year 12 student at Lomary Secondary School last year, Eliza was told to stay home after the news of her pregnancy spread.

Her passion for netball was well known, but even that couldn’t save her from the school rules that led to her suspension.

Determined not to let this setback define her, she stayed home for three weeks before enrolling in the Matua Programme at Nabua, supported by a cousin.

She gave birth to a baby boy a month before she sat for her Year 12 exams and, against all odds, passed with flying colours.

Eliza was no longer the frightened girl she had once been. She had proved to herself that, no matter the obstacles, she could succeed.

“It motivated me to push further. If I could do it then, I know I can do it now,” Eliza said.

Her son became her source of strength, her driving force.

Drive to become dux But the road ahead was far from easy.

In Term 1 this year, Eliza took a bold step-she called the principal of Lomary Secondary School, Josua Tawake, asking if there was a chance for her to return.

At first, there was no space. But seeing her determination and commitment, the principal gave her a second chance.

He encouraged her to aim high, even suggesting she could work toward becoming the school’s dux.

This moment was a turning point. Despite the ridicule and negative whispers from some, Eliza set her sights on becoming the dux.

She ignored the naysayers and refused to let anything stand in her way.

“People will always talk,” she says, her voice firm and steady.

“Think of your child, his future. Don’t let anything stop you, I told myself.”

After months of sacrifice, hard work, and resilience, Eliza achieved what many thought was impossible.

On Wednesday, she graduated from high school and was also named Dux of Lomary Secondary School. It was not just a triumph for

Eliza, but for her family, her community, and for all the young girls who, like her, faced the harsh realities of life.

After receiving her award, this young woman took centre stage and delivered a heartfelt speech that left the stunned audience with pindrop silence, some in tears.

With remarkable bravery, she opened up about the dark moment when she felt as though the world was closing in on her. She had become another statistic of teenage pregnancy, and the weight of that reality threatened to define her.

Yet, instead of succumbing to the pressures around her, she made a life-altering decision to continue her education —a choice that would ultimately transform her future.

Reflection

Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, Eliza adds with a bittersweet smile: “This year has been one of the hardest of my life. We’ve all faced different struggles-some visible, some hidden. But for me, this year has been special.

“Last year, I became a mom. Along with that blessing came responsibilities I never could have imagined.

“Sleepless nights, challenges I wasn’t ready for. But those challenges have made me stronger.”

“My number one supporter has been my baby’s father,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

“And my parents, sisters, friends, principal, and teachers, who never stopped believing in me and my future.”

Eliza’s story is one of resilience, love, and the power of belief.

She has a simple, yet profound message for other girls facing similar struggles: “Never give up. No matter what people say, always believe in yourself.

“Keep moving forward. It’s all about sacrifice, commitment, and the belief that you can achieve anything.”

Her proud mother, Lusiane Vuki, fighting back tears, shares her advice for parents: “Everyone makes mistakes, especially young girls. But that doesn’t mean life is over.

“If something happens to your child, stand by her. Encourage her and push her to reach her full potential. The sky is the limit.”

Feedback: caroline.ratucadra@fijisun.com.fj