Ratu Anare Makes History as First Lawyer in Family
Starting a legal career, according to Ratu Anare, is a gradual process.
Wednesday 26 March 2025 | 03:43
Ratu Anare Davetanivalu with his parents Daina and Jope Davetanivalu on March 25, 2025. Photo: Ronald Kumar
Ratu Anare Roraqoca Davetanivalu, a 24-year-old from Nairukuruku, Naitasiri, made history on Tuesday as the first lawyer in his family after being admitted to the Bar at the University of the South Pacific (USP).
Ratu Anare dedicated his achievement to his late grandmother, whom he said fought a long battle with breast cancer before dying two years ago.
He described her as a fighter whose resilience continued to inspire him to persevere.
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“Being officially sworn-in as a legal practitioner is a huge relief,” he said, acknowledging the immense responsibility that comes with the profession.
Starting a legal career, according to Ratu Anare, is a gradual process.
He emphasized that professionalism required integrity, and though the journey would be challenging, it would become manageable with experience.
Reflecting on the toughest aspects of the Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (PDLP) programme, he called it a significant challenge but described it as just one of the many hurdles in his career path.
When asked about the preparation USP provided for the legal field, Ratu Anare noted that while theoretical knowledge is crucial, the university’s curriculum doesn’t fully prepare students for the realities of legal practice.
“Practical experience,” he said, “is the most important part of the profession.”
He also offered advice for future lawyers: “Read not only law books but everything around your signs, billboards, anything. Knowledge can come from any source.”
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