Retired miner’s daughter becomes lawyer at 24

The daughter of a retired miner has realised her dream of becoming a lawyer after she was sworn in as a new legal practitioner at the age of 24.

Originally from Tavua in the Western Division, Louise Singh said the achievement was a proud moment for her family after years of hard work and sacrifice.

She grew up helping with farm work, including milking cows, and travelled from Tavua to Ba to attend Xavier College during her secondary school education.

Ms Singh initially chose law as one of her majors because of her strength in English and her diplomatic personality. Over time, personal experiences during her studies strengthened her determination to continue the journey and complete her law degree.

Moving to Suva for university was also a major adjustment. Coming from the west, she found it challenging to adapt to the busy city environment and campus life.

However, she gradually overcame the difficulties by stepping out of her comfort zone, making new friends and adjusting to a different lifestyle.

She credited the unwavering support of her parents, siblings and extended family for helping her reach the milestone.

Her father, a retired miner, said the family had faced many struggles while raising their children, recalling early years spent farming and caring for livestock while working to provide education opportunities for them.

Seeing his daughter enter the legal profession, Mr Singh said, it was a proud moment for the family.

Now a newly admitted lawyer, Ms Singh hopes her journey will inspire young people across Fiji to believe in themselves and stay determined despite challenges they go through.