Sailo vows to lead with empathy and heart

Behind the neatly made beds and strict hostel routines of Adi Cakobau School is a new student leader with a quiet determination — 16-year-old Hadassah Sailo.

On Friday, she was badged as Deputy Head Girl (Hostel) for the academic year 2026.

For the youngest and only daughter in a family of five siblings, the moment feels bigger than a title. It is personal.

“I’m truly grateful. I believe I was not only chosen by the teachers, but chosen by God,” she said.

Originally from Tavea, Lekutu in Bua, with maternal links to Nauluvatu, Nakelo in Tailevu, Ms Sailo steps into the role determined to lead with empathy. Many boarders, she says, carry burdens from home.

“Some girls go through hardships at home, we want to make sure they feel comfortable here. Instead of shouting at them, we will talk to them individually and understand why they are behaving the way they are.”

Her leadership style is shaped by compassion but anchored in discipline. She knows the realities — truancy, skipped classes and broken rules — but believes fairness must guide correction.

“Being a leader is not easy. You must not show favoritism, even to your friends,” she said.

“Sometimes when you correct your friends, they may think you are against them. That’s when you know who your true friends are.”

Raised in a strong Christian home, she credits her father for teaching her Bible verses from a young age. Faith, she says, keeps her grounded.

“My relationship with God keeps me grounded,” she said.

A former student of Lelean Memorial School, Ms Sailo joined Adi Cakobau in Year 10.

Transitioning from a co-educational school to an all-girls boarding environment could have been daunting, but supportive friendships helped her settle in.

Beyond leadership, she balances academics with co-curricular pursuits.

She has represented the school in netball during Year 10 and Year 11, is part of the Model United Nations team, and hopes to compete in maths quizzes and English oratory competitions this year.

At home, her achievement carries an extra spark. She is the only girl among four brothers — all former head boys in primary school.

“I’ve beaten my brothers by becoming deputy head girl in secondary school,” she said with a smile.

But for Ms Sailo, leadership is less about winning and more about serving.

Her message to future leaders remains simple: Lead with consistency, fairness and faith — and remember that true leadership is about service, not status.