Tominiko’s Road to Success
“I wish my parents could have been here to see me walk up to the podium to receive my bachelor’s degree, but I am thankful for the family that filled that void,” he said.
Friday 06 September 2024 | 09:00
Proud brothers Kelekolio and John Tominiko hug their younger brother Lafaele Tominiko (middle) at their home in Tamavua Village after he graduated from the University of the South Pacific on September 5, 2024. Photo: Wati Talebula-Nuku
The saying ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ rings true for Lafaele Tominiko, who graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of the South Pacific yesterday.
Originally from Samoa and with deep roots in Tamavua Village, Naitasiri, Mr Tominiko faced the heart-wrenching loss of his parents at a young age.
This profound challenge became a source of motivation for him.
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Even during the toughest times when he felt like giving up, his mother’s family stood unwaveringly by his side, providing the support and love needed to guide him and his siblings through their journey.
The former Sacred Heart College student expressed gratitude to God and to everyone who stood by him during the difficult times.
As the youngest of four siblings, Mr Tominiko reflected on his journey.
“Losing both my parents was hard because they were my support system. I am grateful to my aunties, uncles and Tamavua village for raising me. Looking back now, all the sleepless nights have paid off,” he said.
He shared that he was three-years-old when he lost his father and nine-years-old when he lost his mother.
“This achievement would not have been possible without my family. The support I received was a major source of motivation,” Mr Tominiko said.
One of his wishes is for his parents to see how far he has come.
“I wish my parents could have been here to see me walk up to the podium to receive my bachelor’s degree, but I am thankful for the family that filled that void,” he said.
Mr Tominiko recounted difficult times when he wanted to give up.
“There were many times when I had no lunch and had to walk from school to town. Despite these challenges, they pushed me to achieve my dream.”
He said his aunties and uncles never made him feel the loss of his parents.
“They treated my siblings and I like their own children,” he said.
At the USP, he was private student, Mr Tominiko is financially supported by his brother and aunt who live in the United States.
His plans include working and pursuing further studies. His advice to students is to persevere: “Keep going, and when you feel like giving up, remember why you started in the first place.”
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
