Online community saves FNU student's dream

When 29-year-old Adi Lewatumaibulu Vukidonu Daunibau found herself unable to pay the remaining $16,000 in university fees, she faced the crushing possibility of being pulled out of her final year at the Fiji National University (FNU).  

For the fifth-year Bachelor of Oral Health student, this wasn’t just a financial setback, it was a dream on the brink of collapse. 

“I really had no other choice,” she said, recalling the moment she reached out to social media influencer, Lesi Vanuavou, for help.

“Everywhere I went; I could not find comfort. So, I thought maybe someone could use their platform because I really needed it.” 

What happened next was something she describes as nothing short of a miracle. 

 Through Mr Vanuavou’s online outreach, donations began to pour in via M-PAiSA and online banking. 

Within one day, the full amount was raised.

For Adi, it was an overwhelming reminder that even strangers can become the hands of hope. 

“I didn’t believe that he would actually receive my message,” she said with a smile. “Everything was just working on God’s good timing.” 

The debt was cleared by the support from supporters and the online community.  

 Adi’s academic path wasn’t straightforward.

When she first applied for Dental Technology in 2016, she admits she didn’t fully understand what the course involved.

“When I started, it was mostly lab work things like making dental appliances and mouthguards,” she recalled. 

In 2018, she transitioned into Oral Health, pursuing her goal of becoming a dental practitioner.

Yet, balancing studies, to carter for her husband and financial hardship made the journey far from easy. 

“There were times I wanted to back out,” she confessed.

 “I told my husband, I think I’ll stop. It was embarrassing to think that I might be pulled out of school because I couldn’t pay.” 

But she kept attending classes, driven by faith and determination.

“I was praying, asking God to make a miracle for me,” she said. “And He did.” 

The story of Adi’s struggle and triumph resonated widely online, not just for its emotional pull, but for the larger message it sent about community and compassion.

In a society where many suffer in silence over financial struggles, her story became a call to openness and empathy.  

“I want to encourage students that it’s okay to share your problems,” she said.

“Talk to a friend, talk to a relative. You never know what will happen. 

“And for people out there—if you know a student, just ask them how they’re doing. Maybe help with bus fare, lunch, or even clothes for school.” 

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj