Anchored in mum’s love
DONALD Korotini’s life story is a tapestry woven with threads of struggle, resilience and unwavering love of family.
Growing up in Suva, Donald faced numerous challenges, including academic setbacks and the absence of his father, who served in the military.
But amidst the turmoil, one thing remained constant: the love and guidance of his mother and maternal family.
“I was brought up by mum the majority of the time as dad was away on military tours in the Middle East or serving in different parts of Fiji,” he says.
“While growing up in Suva, I was easily swayed by peer pressure and did not do very well academically,
“And as a result, I failed to complete all my final exams in Form 6, and eventually I failed my FSLC.”
His mother’s words echoed in his heart, reminding him that life held boundless opportunities for those who dared to dream and work hard.
Despite the hardships, Donald’s spirit remained unbroken.
“After failing Form 6, I did not see any type of future for myself and thought I would just take each day as it came.
“I spent my time hanging out with friends and got involved with the wrong crowd, which eventually led to me dabbling in drugs and excessive drinking because I never thought I would progress in life.
“I thought cutting grass around my neighborhood was going to be what I would end up doing for the rest of my life.”
A pivotal moment came when he ventured to Australia, seeking a new perspective on life. It was there that he discovered his passion for air conditioning and refrigeration, setting him on a path of self-discovery and growth.
“Mum worried about where my life was headed at the pace I was going at that time, that she decided to send me to Australia when I was 19 years old, hoping it would open my eyes to the bigger world and that there was more that life had to offer than the four corners of my neighborhood.”
Returning to Fiji, Donald faced uncertainty about his future until his mother’s wise counsel nudged him again. This time towards a career in the military. The discipline and structure he found in the army transformed him and instilled in him a sense of purpose and direction.
“I was fortunate enough to join the 3rd Infantry Battalion based in Nabua as a trainer in the training wing. Being in the army gave me the opportunity to travel around Fiji.”
But fate had more in store for him.
A move to New Zealand with his wife opened doors to new opportunities, leading him to a career at the Port of Auckland. Starting as a lasher, his dedication and hard work caught the eye of his colleagues, propelling him into a role as a tutor, the first Fijian to hold such a position at the Port of Auckland.
Despite his doubts, he embraced the challenge, driven by a desire to make his late mother proud. His journey, from a high school dropout to a respected professional is a testament to the power of perseverance and selfbelief.
“I did not attend university and graduate with a degree or even a certificate, but I managed to turn my life around from that 17-yearold high school dropout who had no aspirations in life.”
Today, Donald stands tall, his life a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His story serves as a beacon of hope for those facing adversity, reminding us that with love, determination and faith, the journey from despair to triumph is possible.
And in every step he takes, he carries with him the legacy of his mother’s love and wisdom, a guiding light illuminating the path to a brighter future.
“I thank my late mother for molding me and pushing me to fulfil the potential she saw in me when I didn’t even see it myself.
“Everything happens for a reason, and every step that I have taken that has led me to where I am today is because of her teachings.”