Hardworking Dad Inspires Dux Isireli
Isireli Iosefo Mataitoga was always fascinated by the effort put in by his father as sole breadwinner.
The determination, hard work and commitment displayed by his father, Police Inspector, Ananaisa Mataitoga, towards supporting his wife, Akata, his son, Isireli and his other children was a motivation enough for Isireli to work hard in school.
The 18-year-old also accomplished his mission to to be named the Dux of St Thomas High School someday.
The Year 13 arts student of St Thomas High School at Natabua, Lautoka, accomplished his goal when he was awarded the Dux Shield during the school’s annual awards day on Friday.
The Nawaikau Village, Gau native also comes from a family of strong Catholics and travels daily from his home in Votualevu, Nadi to school.
He said the hardship and challenges were expected.
“Life was tough for me, with the challenges faced at home, traveling daily from Nadi to Lautoka and always having at the back of my mind to become the Dux,” he said.
“Today I am proud to see that smile on the faces of my mum and dad, I did it, and their smiles are my greatest blessing.”
Isireli also scooped the awards for attaining the highest marks in History – 89, Geography – 66, becoming the best social science student, receiving the prefect recognition award and securing first place in his year.
He added that this year, his spiritual life had also developed more following the death of his grandfather.
“Daily prayers have now become a priority for me,” Isireli said.
The youngster has plans to pursue his tertiary education at the University of the South Pacific studying social work and psychology.
“Seeing the amount of young people in school endure so many problems I thought to pursue my studies in these fields to bring relief to youths who are going through such problems,” he said.
Today I am proud to see that smile on the faces of my mum and dad, I did it, and their smiles are my greatest blessing Isireli Mataitoga Saint Thomas High School Dux