The sacrifice of Rosa Yalayalatoro and Mosese Covu in raising their eldest granddaughter paid off when 28-year-old Latileta Likusalala achieved one of the highest awards at a recent passing-out parade in the UK.
Ms Likusalala was raised by her grandparents.
She recently completed 14 weeks of intensive training as a private in the British Army and was awarded the Commanding Officer’s Award for Best Endeavour for putting in her maximum and best effort through challenges faced during her training.
Mrs Yalayalatoro said they were overwhelmed with their granddaughter’s achievement.
“This grandchild of ours we used to count as our own child,” said the emotional grandmother.
“When she told us that she won the award, we couldn’t thank God enough for His blessings for our granddaughter.”
According to the Nalase, Rewa, lass, the 14-week training was excruciating at times but it was worth it when she won the award.
She said her passion for joining the British Army started when she was a teenager growing up in Suva.
“My uncle also inspired me when I used to look through photos of him in his British Army uniform and hearing his stories when he would call us from England,” she said.
“I basically love everything about my job right now, from meeting new people and learning new things such as living a disciplined life.
“I dedicate my achievement to God, without Him I wouldn’t have had the will to complete the training; to my family and friends whom without their support I wouldn’t be where I am today.
“And most especially to my grandparents whose upbringing, prayers and blessings were always with me every step of the way,” Ms Likusalala said.
