RKS dux Usaia Delai sets sights on legal career after major awards

Ratu Kadavulevu School’s dux, Usaia Delai, says he is more determined than ever to pursue a career in law after receiving two major awards at the school’s prizegiving ceremony on Saturday.

The 18-year-old, from Matacaucau, Namalata in Tailevu, won the Best Arts Student Award and the Dux Award during the ceremony at the school chapel. He said the recognition felt surreal after years of quiet perseverance.

“I was honestly lost for words,” he said.

“When they called my name, I felt this wave of gratitude. All those late nights, all the sacrifices — it suddenly felt worth it.”

He said studying in an all-boys institution came with its challenges, including peer pressure and constant competition.

“At times I really struggled,” he said.

“There were moments I felt like giving up because the pressure was overwhelming. But every time I thought of where I came from and the people who believed in me, I pushed a little harder.”

Delai said he entered RKS at 14, unsure of himself but determined to find his place.

“There were students with great potential, and the competition was intense,” he said.

“Instead of feeling intimidated, it motivated me. It reminded me to run my own race, work at my own pace and make my family proud.”

He said the support of his parents carried him through the toughest days.

“My mum always told me, ‘Just do your best; the rest will follow.’ Those words stayed with me,” he said.

“On Saturday, I felt like I was finally giving something back to them.”

With high school behind him, Usaia now hopes to begin a legal career— a dream he says feels even closer after his achievements.

“I want to become a lawyer because I want to help people who don’t always have a voice,” he said.

“If I can make even a small difference for someone, then all this hard work will mean something.”