Beyond the walls
Emosi’s new lease of life
lllllFORMER inmate Emosi Tabuaseri was offered a new lease of life after he graduated recently with vocational qualifications from the Monfort Boys Town in Veisari, Lami.
Mr Tabuaseri was a first time offender at the Nasinu Corrections Centre, under the Fiji Corrections Services (FCS) Early Release for Education program.
The program encourages young men to complete their qualifications while serving prison terms at FCS as a means of starting a new life beyond prison walls.
The Naitasiri lad entered the program last year and was among 43 students who successfully underwent a grade three trade test conducted by the Fiji National University for courses offered in motor vehicle mechanic, electrician, fitting, machining, building and cabinet making joinery. A reformed Emosi said his journey to receiving his graduation certificate was not an easy one.
“There were many ups and downs over the years I was here at Monfort but I did not let that deter me from my goal of graduating,” the 24-year-old said.
“Some of the challenges I faced were food and morning runs.
“It was hard adjusting to the new timetable as well as the meals and waking up early.”
He said since joining the program, the school had opened his eyes to a life away from crime.
“I don’t have the words to describe how happy I am today but all I can say is coming here has really opened my eyes and changed my outlook on life.
“I never let my past deter me from finishing my studies. I never gave up and just kept on pushing.
“I want to thank FCS, the school and my parents for giving me a second chance to further my education and life.”
His message to young men was “despite your current circumstance – there is always room to change”.
“Know there is a God who is always listening. “If he can change my life then he can surely change yours too.”
His father Iliaseri Tabuaseri said he was happy with what his son achieved over the short period of time at the school.
“From where Emosi started was not an easy place, but his mother and I are happy to see how far he has come,” the emotional father said.
“I did not believe he would reach where he is today and I want to thank the Lord for guiding Emosi through his challenges.
“Many in the family did not believe he would reach here today and now they are asking how this did happen and we just say it was all God.”
He thanked the FCS and school for taking an initiative and giving his son a second chance in life.
“This program has opened many doors for Emosi and I want to thank FCS.”
He encouraged parents to support their children despite their failures and past.
“Today we go home as proud parents and we encourage all parents to have patience and love for their children.
“Our children need all the support they can get if they are to move further in their lives.”
I don’t have the words to describe how happy I am
today...
— Emosi Tabuaseri —