Fiji National University (FNU) graduate Aisea Toribau described his graduation celebration earlier this month as ‘life’s most jovial and special day for him and his entire family.’ Toribau has proudly become the lone family member to have attained a tertiary qualification.
He graduated from FNU’s College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) with a Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management.
“I am the eldest in the family of six siblings and I take pride in where I have reached today. I am ecstatic to realise that my younger brothers and sisters will look upon me as a positive influence in their lives,” stated Toribau.
The 26-year-old has worked as a Bank Teller at Westpac Banking Corporation and took multiple roles at Digicel and Unwired Fiji which included retail executive, outbound caller agent, and a corporate care agent before his transition into full-time studies.
Life has not been a bed of roses for the new graduate.
“I was once incarcerated and there was fear of how people will judge me for my past situations. I have also been at a point where I did not have real friends. With continuous encouragement from my immediate family members and with the grace of the Lord I was able to lift myself and give a new direction to my life.”
Toribau added that aside from the usual challenges of completing a degree – multiple assignments, readings and competing deadlines – there were also many highlights during his education journey.
“Adapting to a new environment, from a full-time employee to a full-time student was challenging at first, however, I have made lifelong friends at the university.”
“One of the most unforgettable moments was when one of our dear colleague passed away and we were finding it really difficult to arrange for bus service to his funeral. I took our plight to the University Registrar and she instantly approved our request. Still thankful for her kind gesture,” he shared.
Toribau recommends FNU’s Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management programme for aspiring students.
“The skills and knowledge gained from the three-year Bachelor’s programme have equipped me for a career in any of the diverse fields of management in the industry, commerce, non-profit and government organisations.”
The FNU alumni has also represented Fiji in the Global Goals Model United Nations held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2019, which provided him with a platform to inculcate public speaking, diplomacy and negotiation skills along with youth from all around the world. He believes it was a combination of passion and dedication to get to where he is today.
Not letting his past become a deterrent to his future success was Toribau’s motto and this is something that he has highlighted to the current and prospective students.
“I have overcome the biggest hurdle in my life and so can you. Even if you fall down 100 times, stand up 101st time. Do not give up. Keep pushing and keep learning. In all these, make sure you believe in yourself.”
Prospective students who wish to study Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management or any other programmes at FNU are encouraged to Apply Now for Semester 1, 2022 studies via the Admission Application portal on the FNU website. Click on https://www.fnu.ac.fj/study/apply/
Students can also text on 857 or email admission@fnu.ac.fj if they face difficulties completing the process online or need further admission information.