Sereana Valuwaqa Defies Odd
“I was born with bone cancer in my leg and was referred to Hawaii for surgery. Now I have an artificial leg that supports me and keeps me moving,” she said.
Thursday 11 January 2024 | 15:30
Sereana Valuwaqa after her graduation at the Makoi Women’s Vocational Training Centre in Nasinu on January 10, 2024. Photo: Meli Nasele
Sereana Valuwaqa from Cicia, Lau, is ready to support her family after graduating from the Makoi Women’s Vocational Training Centre (MWVTC) at Tuirara, Nasinu yesterday.
Ms Valuwaqa said being disabled did not stop her from pursuing her dream and attaining a Certificate in Pastry and Culinary with the support of the social welfare scheme.
“I was born with bone cancer in my leg and was referred to Hawaii for surgery. Now I have an artificial leg that supports me and keeps me moving,” she said.
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“My parents are the only ones motivating me, and today (yesterday) is a dream come true for me and my family. I have extended my knowledge of baking and pastry.
This will assist my family financially,”Ms Valuwaqa said.
The 20-year-old, who has a maternal connection with Navosa, considers herself to be a normal person despite her disability.
“I have always been motivated to help my parents in whatever way I can. Being the eldest in the family, I have big shoes to fill by looking after my younger siblings,” Ms Valuwaqa said.
She said she was blessed as Vodafone Fiji assisted her in her surgery in Hawaii.
“I never look down on myself or my condition. I took the opportunity from the social welfare department, studied for 10 months, and now I am ready to start a small business.
“If I can do it, they can do it too,” Ms Valuwaqa said.
She thanked the centre for providing assistance and giving women a second chance to obtain something in life.
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