Leadership through adversity: Gospel High head boy receives baton of honour
Mr Tawake openly shared his biggest challenge growing up without both parents by his side.
Sunday 24 August 2025 | 07:30
Gospel High School in Suva came alive on Friday as 550 students proudly took part in the school’s annual passing-out parade.
Among them is head boy Jeremaia Tawake, 18, from Mualevu, Vanuabalavu, Lau.
He has maternal ties to Banaba Island, Mr Tawake from the St Mathew House (Green), led his peers with quiet strength, and was awarded the Baton of Honour to mark his leadership and dedication.
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Mr Tawake openly shared his biggest challenge growing up without both parents by his side.
“There were moments when I felt broken. Seeing my parents apart was not easy, but I told myself I could either give up or rise above it. I chose to rise,” he said.
Mr Tawake said leadership was not about authority, but about responsibility.
“To be head boy is to serve. You carry the weight of students’ voices and also their trust. Some days are tough, but I always remind myself that leadership is about fairness, patience, and courage.
“This is not just my award. It represents every tear, every late night, and every sacrifice. It is for my family, my teachers, and my friends who stood by me when I almost gave up.”
For the Gospel High School community, his story was more than inspiring. It was a reminder that true leadership is born not from privilege, but from perseverance and heart.
