Maca's Baton of Honour success fuels police job ambition 

Maca Ratinaniika’s achievement in receiving the Baton of Honour award has strengthened her ambition to one day join the Fiji Police Force.

The 19-year-old Year 13 student was awarded the prize during Nabala Secondary School’s cadet passing-out parade at Macuata District in Macuata.

The soft-spoken student dedicated her success to her parents, teachers and classmates.

Originally from Sasa in Macuata, this was Maca’s first Baton of Honour since joining cadet training at school.

She said despite the physical stamina required to withstand the heat and long drill sessions, she overcame all obstacles.

Drug-free life motivates Maca

Maca said one of her goals in life is to avoid illicit drugs and remain disciplined.

"I want to stay away from illicit drugs and be disciplined to make a good name for myself," she said.

As the eldest of six siblings, she said she wanted to lead by example.

Maca added she was ready to sacrifice her social life for a disciplined path toward one day wearing the blue police uniform. She also hopes to excel in her Fiji Year 13 Certificate Examination (FY13CE).

She encouraged young people to stay away from drugs and focus on working hard to earn a decent living.

"I believe we youths have the power to change our fate positively," she said.

Committed preparation

Maca said her passion and commitment to cadet training played a big role in her success.

"We spent two weeks in preparation for this cadet passing out and had to juggle between studies and cadet drill training," she said.