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Single mother Salote Maria Taukeisalili overcame many obstacles and eventually obtained a degree.
With the support of her family, friends and loved ones, the 24-year-old mother of two from Kubrau Nakorovo village in Bua County has shown true courage during her years of pursuing higher education.
Born and raised in her mother’s village, Namuamua, in the Namosi Highlands, Ms Taukeisalili is the eldest of three daughters and one son. She received her primary education at Ro Matanitobua Memorial School and her secondary education at Vashist Muni College and Nasinu Secondary School.
Ms Taukeisalili later attended USP Lautoka, majoring in Business, however, she chose a different direction when she decided to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Bachelor of Arts in Education, majoring in Geography and English.
She began her career in 2019, around the time she became pregnant with her first child, a period she describes as “challenging but rewarding.”
“In 2019, I was pregnant with Romeo (son), but I insisted on going to school despite symptoms of morning sickness, weakness and weight gain,” Ms Taukeisalili said.
Her second son, Ezekiel, was born in 2022.
“Of course, I told the father of the child but they made no effort. So I chose to let it go and raise the child with the support of my family.
“You can’t force anyone to help if they don’t want to, right?”
Ms Toxalili said despite the setbacks, her goal remained in her mind and she had held onto the dream since she first met her son Romeo.
“After I had my first son, everything I had considered before was overshadowed by this small light that made me a mother.
“I set a goal and remind myself every day that I will achieve it.”
With the support of her immediate family, Ms Taukeisalili continued her studies.
Her mother worked as a nanny at home in Namosi, while she stayed with relatives in Navua to ease the burden of travelling to attend lectures every day.
“It was difficult for me at first to leave my son when he was still young. I thought I was being selfish, but with the encouragement of my family, I finally got through it.
“So I am deeply grateful to my biggest supporters, my namesake, my parents, for believing in me, trusting me, and giving me the opportunity to complete my education.”
Ms Taukeisalili has also graced the catwalk at Fiji Fashion Week on several occasions, showcasing her love of fashion and bubbly personality.
In late April this year, Ms Taukeisalili shed tears of joy as she walked through the Vodafone Arena holding her child to receive the certificate.
Two weeks later, she was posted to Dilkusha Methodist High School in Nausori.
“It’s all God’s work, all God’s work, all the glory goes to Him. I thank Him for letting me go through so many hardships and challenges, they have made me stronger. Staying up late to study and making sacrifices have really benefited me a lot.
“Looking back, I can confidently say I wouldn’t have done it any other way.”
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