Every now and then, we hear inspiring stories of Fijians rising to success after a dark chapter in their life.

While many would consider their dark chapter to be a bad one, others treat those chapters as a journey pivotal to their achievements.

Sharing these sentiments on Friday was Nakasi High School head girl and dux recipient, Esther Lusiana Kuva who dedicated her success to her late mother.

The 18-year-old from Korovisilou Village in Serua couldn’t help her tears when her name was announced as the school dux.

“I lost my mother to bone cancer last year before I sat my Year 12 Fiji School Leaving Certificate examination, and it was quite hard for the four of us (siblings),” Ms Kuva expressed.

“It was hard trying to juggle my school, my role in the school and all; at this point I’m even shocked to be scooping all these awards.”

Although the obstacles were many, Ms Kuva was grateful for all those that stood be her in her journey to success.

“I thank my family, special thanks to my aunt and uncle, who took us in during our tough time and my grandmother who supported us in so many ways,” she said.

“Although my mother isn’t here physically, I know she is here with me spiritually.”

Nakasi High School head girl and 2024 dux, Esther Lusiana Kuva with her family on November 29, 2024. Photo: Beranadeta Nagatalevu

Ms Kuva scooped the:

•  Year 13 prize
•  Leadership award
•  Year 13 distinction award
•  Subject award- English, Pure Mathematics, Biology and Physics
•  Best Science Student
•  Principal Award, and
•  Dux award 2024

Ms Kuva’s siblings and 71-year-old grandmother, Ana Qitialewa couldn’t contain their excitement after seeing her bask in her success.

“One of the many traits I find in my granddaughter is that she has discipline; travelling all the way from Verata, Tailevu every day at 5.30am for school, she gets home, does what she needs to do and by seven o’clock she’s already in bed,” Ms Qitialewa explained.

“I know her mom would be so proud of her right now and what she has achieved.”

Ms Qitialewa said they were preparing to move to their new home in Koronivia after their father bought a piece of land in the area. From here, Ms Kuva is planning to pursue her interest in the medical field, still trying to choose between nursing school and dental care.

“Sacrifice and dedication is the key and in everything you do put God first and He will do the rest,” Ms Kuva advised.

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