Teen Mum is DUX of Wainimala Secondary School

Paulina Tikonilia defied all odds to win the leadership and achievement award and the dux prize during the Wainimala Secondary School's prizegiving ceremony on Wednesday.

The Journey by the 21-year-old is a testament to her unwavering spirit to overcome societal judgement and personal challenges.

Every school day the Udu, Wainimala native, has to leave home early by carrier and then cross a river to reach school.

Her story began at the age of 17 when she fell pregnant while still a Year 12 student at Wainimala Secondary School.

When she broke the news to her parents, the initial shock turned into steadfast support.

"Life as a single mother living in the village was hard. I had to lean heavily on the support of my parents for our well-being," Paulina said.

Amid gossips and judgements from close relatives, Paulina moved on.

Her parents became her pillars of strength, encouraging her to return to school and complete her education.

In 2022, she took an unexpected opportunity when a school uniform meant for her younger sister fit her perfectly.

This is where she decided to resume her educational journey.

She returned lo complete Year 12 in 2022 and progressed to Year 13, when she was named head girl.

"I decided to give my best and prove myself," said Paulina, emphasising the importance of focusing on one's dreams.

Learning from her mistakes, she left no room for distraction, concentrated on her studies with an aim to secure a job to independently support her son.

''Life goes on, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth," she said.

Paulina now looks forward to a career in teaching and hopes to provide her son with the opportunities she fought so hard to secure.

Paulina's father, Tomasi Tikonilia expressed composure.

"As parents. we need to continue to show love and support to our children, no matter what happens," he said.

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