In pursuit of a dream
THE loss a parent can impact one’s mental health, but having supportive people around, and being spiritually strong, can allow space for both internal and external healing.
This resonates with Rigieta Taka, a 21-year-old woman Dravuwalu Village in Totoya, Lau, with maternal links to Maloku on Moala Island.
Ms Taka says her childhood was filled with some of the happiest moments of her life.
“Born and raised in Suva, specifically in Nabua koro, my childhood was one which I would gladly live all over again if I could,” she said.
“Growing up in a community known as a red zone for drug-related issues and violence, we somehow felt completely safe and shielded.”
Her favourite memory as a child was playing pani and baseball, and the best part was the little rivalries they would create on the playground.
It was these settings that the imaginative and sociable young woman would nurture a dream of becoming a journalist and making a name for herself in the media industry.
“All throughout my primary and secondary school years, I aspired to become a journalist all because of a family member who’s a wellknown multimedia journalist in a prestigious media company.
“Watching him excel at his job intrigued me and filled me with a passion to take up journalism studies.”
But somewhere deep in her heart, Ms Taka also developed a spiritual interest in theological studies.
“I was raised in a strict methodist family where devotion was held at 7pm daily and Sunday school at church was mandatory,” Ms Taka said.
“This developed my interest in theological studies, so at year 12 I made up my mind to pursue a diploma in the lay ministry program at Davuilevu.”
At first, she received criticism for wanting to join Davuilevu Theological College right after Year 13, however, she had the unerring support of her late father.
Ms Taka encountered personal trials and tribulations after the loss of her father during her second year at college, but she pushed on and successfully graduated in 2023.
“On March 18, 2022, I faced the most traumatic day in my life because instead of celebrating my 20th birthday, my family members were in the ER watching my dad pass away after a short illness.
“I fell into depression. I just wanted to be alone, but I told myself my dad would always want what’s best for us. And with his love and support, I made it in my studies, and I will continue to thrive, for him.”
With the support of her close family and friends, Ms Taka was able to emerge from her misery to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies.
“I am forever grateful to my mum and siblings for supporting me in my aim to accomplish my studies and embark on my journey as a journalist.
“My advice to young people out there is to follow your heart and mind despite people telling you otherwise because at the end of the day your success and accomplishments are yours to write.”
I aspired to become a journalist all because of a family member who’s a well-known multimedia journalist – Rigieta Taka –