Mum Cries As Siblings Graduate

Naomi Naibena embraced her two daughters, Marica Samabale Biau and Loata Kulawai Biau, expressing gratitude for their hard work.

The sisters graduated from Pacific Polytech on Friday at the Vunimono Hall in Nausori.

Ms Naibena was overcome with emotion as she reflected on the challenges of single-handedly raising her children.

The Nakorosule mother from Naitasiri shared that her daughters' perseverance had been her source of strength during tough times.

"Today is a day I will always cherish because two out of three of my daughters graduated. Raising my children alone, witnessing this day is beyond my expectations," Ms Naibena said.

"I want my daughters to graduate so they can support our family, and I know they will. I've always re-minded them to work hard, be self-reliant, and prioritise God."

She said it was important for parents to continue motivating their children to resist peer pressure and work on their dreams.

Marica expressed gratitude for her mother's unwavering support and said that her mother never made them feel incomplete without a father.

Marica graduated with a National Certificate in Electrical Fitter Mechanics (Level 3).

"My mother never gave up on us. She believed in us even when others didn't and always reminded us to work hard.

My mother was our father too, and I am grateful to have her," the 21-year-old said.

"The struggles we endured motivated me to do my best.

I drew strength from those hardships. We may not have it all but to us our mother is our everything and we will continue to do our best for her."

Marica seized the opportunity when she heard about Pacific Poly-tech and its scholarships, which led her to apply and eventually graduate.

She hopes to further her studies.

Loata, who graduated with a National Certificate 3 in Automotive Mechanic Engineering (Certificate 3), echoed Marica's sentiments, dedicating their achievements to their mother.

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