Laisa’s determination
NEVER let your negative experiences determine your future because you have the key to unlock your real potential, says Laisa Sokolomani Tavuki.
Laisa experienced the challenges of life knowing there was always the possibility of coming out with strength and confidence to push through.
The 22-year-old is the eldest of three siblings and hails from Vunuku in Rewa and shares maternal links to Nasilai, Nakelo and Tailevu.
Life was not always a bed of roses for Laisa and the family.
However, the times she spent with her parents taught her the valuable lesson of standing on her own two feet.
“Life growing up wasn’t easy,” she said.
“I was raised by a mother who worked as a market vendor and my father was an electrical contractor.”
Laisa was in class three when her mother started selling fish.
She said everyday after school she would go to the market to help her mother sell fish around Lami, Valelevu and Nausori.
“My target was to at least sell 20 bundles of fish every afternoon even though I was very young.
“I was taught to be independent, to serve customers and to be able to take charge of the market business during my mother’s absence.
“We were always taught to do better than our parents and to always keep in mind all the struggles our parents went through to provide us a decent life.”
Laisa said from a young age she had a interest in helping people — to provide the best customer service.
“Ever since I was little I had an interest in doing things related to health, but more importantly helping people in need of immediate attention while at the same
The dry weather is getting worse every year. Some animals can’t walk far because they are too weak
– Laisa Sokolomani Tavuki –
time making my parents proud.”
After she finished high school, Laisa was not sure of a program that suited her, but with the guidance of close friends and family she took on the Bachelor of Environmental Science program.
She studied at the Fiji School of Medicine from 2021 to 2023
“During my tertiary days I went through challenges, but I overcame them by telling myself to keep going, you got this.
“My last year was my toughest, but I prayed so I could finish my degree.
“Not many people knew the struggles I encountered since I’m the type of person who smiles even during my worst days.”
Laisa’s goal of not giving up finally paid off when she graduated with flying colours and later became attached to the Nausori Health Centre.
One of the best pieces of advice she received were the words “when there is no struggle, there is no strength”.
Laisa encourages others to work hard and understand that people’s words and perceptions of your life should not determine your future.