It takes a village to raise a child.
That is a proverb that means an entire community of people provides for the survival and wellbeing of a child.
And they must interact, engage, discipline and provide a safe environment so that children may grow into productive adults.
The expression can be said for Adi Kelera Bukalidi as she took her oath of admittance to the Bar of the High Court of Fiji.
She thanked and dedicated her success to her maternal and paternal close family members and relatives for being her pillar of support.
The Fiji Times caught up with the young woman from Lovoni, Ovalau and her cousin Filipe Batiwale at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
Adi Kelera obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Fiji in December last year, and completed her Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) in February.
Her law journey began when cousin Filipe persuaded her to pursue further studies in law.
“I started my journey back in 2018 through the influence of my cousin, Filipe Batiwale, who is a lawyer,” Adi Kelera said.
“He’d always wanted me to become a lawyer. He persuaded me and I have never regretted choosing this career path.”
The 29-year-old said the journey wasn’t easy, but through the help and support of her family, friends and relatives, she was able to triumph.
“My journey as a law student and getting admitted today have been such an overwhelming experience.
“It was very emotional for me to be standing there, thinking of him (Filipe). He’s the one who was always encouraging me, believing in me.”
Adi Kelera never hesitated to acknowledged the support of all her family members back on the island of Ovalau.
According to Filipe, family members would have hired a boat to attend the ceremony if more than two guests were allowed for each counsel.
“I’m thankful for my support system, my husband Timoci Bogidua, who is away in Geneva at the moment on an internship program. He will be back in December.
“I dedicate my success to everyone, especially to my family, my village in Lovoni, Ovalau. I’m a proud pure Lovoni girl. My koro-ni-vasu in Visoto, Ovalau.”
Adi Kelera also acknowledged her lecturers and support staff at the University of Fiji.
