Midshipman Graduates from Prestigious UK Naval College
“It’s been quite a journey, full of struggle, sacrifice, and hard lessons, but he (Mitchell) never gave up.”
Saturday 16 August 2025 | 06:00
From left: Stanley Simpson (dad), Gradute Fiji Midshipman, Mitchell Simpson and (mom) Siteri Simpson.
Photo: Stanley Simpson
In a proud moment for Fiji, Midshipman Mitchell Simpson has graduated from the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, United Kingdom, one of the world’s oldest and most respected naval academies.
Mr Simpson’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Fiji’s representation in international naval training, reflecting dedication, discipline, and excellence in military service.
He is now one of the very few Fijians to have achieved this milestone in the college’s 120-year history, which has trained the likes of King Charles and Prince William.
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Speaking on behalf of the family, Mitchell’s father, Stanley Simpson, shared the deep pride and emotion of the moment.
“We are proud of our eldest boy for reaching this point,” Mr Simpson said.
“It’s been quite a journey, full of struggle, sacrifice, and hard lessons, but he (Mitchell) never gave up.”
Mr Simpson’s journey was far from easy. After excelling as a student and rugby captain in high school, his dreams were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gradute Fiji Midshipman, Mitchell Simpson.
Like many, he struggled with the sudden change, falling into bad habits and losing direction.
“He lost his way. We had to step in, put in tutors, and set a strict regime just to help him pass. It wasn’t easy,” his father recalled.
Denied the chance to enter officer training straight out of school, Mr Simpson had to work his way up — first as a recruit, then through the Navy’s rigorous selection process.
Two years of mental and physical endurance later, he earned his spot at Dartmouth.
“He chose the long, hard road. But he stayed committed, and now he’s made it,” Mr Simpson said.
“This is a reminder to never give up on your children, even if they fall.”
Mr Mitchell represented Fiji at the passing-out parade, with support from the Fiji High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Jovilisi Suveinakama.
“We’re thankful to the Republic of Fiji Navy for believing in him. It’s a great moment for our family and our country.”
