Mishra, Reddy Break Barriers

Risha Mishra and Yetamma Reddy broke barriers by being the only two Indo-Fijian females who took part in the Lomary Secondary School annual cadet ceremony on Friday.

The duo expressed how excited they were to be involved in a cadet training and passing-out event.

Year 11 student Risha Mishra said being part of the cadet training gave her a fresh perspective about life.

Mishra said moving from Rampur College to Lomary Secondary School was a shift of faith for her, in which the surroundings were different for her.

“I spent two years in Rampur College, moving to a new school environment especially in an iTaukei dominant one gave me a sense of belongings,” Mishra said.

“Being the only Indo-Fijian girl in my class, I don’t feel different from any other girl who seats in the room.”

Mishra, who aspires to be a businesswoman one day, stood tall while braving the heat during the march past parade.

“It’s all in the mind when I decided to participate at this year’s cadet parade. I felt a lot of acceptance from my classmates and teachers which really made a difference,” she said.

“I realise it was all worth it.”

On the other hand, Reddy who spent more than two years at Lomary, said it will be etched in history that this was the first time that two Indo-Fijian girls participated in such an occasion.

Aspiring to join the Fiji Police Force one day, she took her queue from the cadet parade procedures and what it’s like to be in the force.

Reddy said the structured nature of cadet training instilled a strong sense of discipline and responsibility.

“Cadets learn to manage time effectively, follow procedures, and meet high standard,” she said.

“Cadet training often involves various challenges and scenarios that require quick thinking and problem-solving.”

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