Hardwork and ambition propelled Rachael Tugi into achieving what she had never dreamt to achieve in life.
From looking at a simple picture of a navy sailor in uniform to donning one, Ms Tugi did not lose focus and faith in what she aspired to fulfil.
The Naroi, Moala lass with maternal links to Lakeba in Lau wanted to be many things after completing high school — a fire fighter, doctor, an astronaut, lawyer or teacher. Being in the navy wasn’t even in the list.
“This wasn’t exactly what I dreamt of growing up, but it’s exactly what I prayed for,” Ms Tugi said.
“I’ve been in the service for three years now and I’m determined to work towards a life where I can travel the world and enjoy it as a young woman.”
Ms Tugi says she vividly remembers the day she returned home after her last day of high school and noticed a US Navy sailor’s picture in uniform on Google.
Her interest peaked and it was then that she told herself “I really like this uniform and I see myself wearing it one day”.
“I was a Form 7 student in Jai Narayan College, uncertaint of what I wanted to do after high school.
“I was in my bed on my phone when I stumbled across a US Navy sailor picture in uniform.
“So all throughout my high school education, I worked towards attaining a scholarship, but unfortunately I didn’t get it which made me lose faith in myself and everything else.
“I took a last leap of faith and moved to the US with nothing, but my God-sized dreams and promises and signed myself up for the navy.
“After 10 months I was shipped out for basic training and that was the beginning of a new chapter for me.”
It took Ms Tugi a while before she realise that securing scholarships didn’t determine one’s destiny, but with God’s help other doors could open like a picture on Google in her case.
“The military culture is really diverse and that’s one of the things I love about it.
“You get to meet people from all walks of life, experience other cultures and go to different places.
“Just like every other job, some days it’s exhausting and there are days when I feel my absolute best.
“On days where I don’t feel like it, I remember my ‘why’ and ‘who’ I’m doing this for and that’s my drive.”
Ms Tugi’s leisure activities include going to the beach, spending family time, going on adventures and exploring nature and as an ambivert, her personality is dependent on what type of people she’s surrounded by.
Of course, with her job and as someone who’s away from her family, she’s faced with challenges which sometimes leave her feeling homesick.
“I’m currently serving onboard a Nuclear Powered Aircraft Carrier that carries 5000 sailors which is deployed to the Mediterranean seas.
“I’ve been out to sea for more than 160 consecutive days.
“As a Culinary Specialist Second Class Petty Officer, we prepare four meals a day for 5000 sailors onboard everyday with over 14000 meals served. I’d say this is one of the toughest trade as it requires you to be constantly on your feet cooking for a mass number of people.
“Every day is a challenge and I terribly miss my family and home life.
“But I know I’m surrounded with people who feel the same way so I really don’t dwell on it too much.”
Ms Tugi attributes her success to her grandmother as well as the village of strong warriors who helped raised her, her mum and her mum’s siblings.
“Their guidance, support and influence have been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today and for that, I will be forever grateful,” she said with a smile.
“So with that I would like to encourage my female peers that on the days where you don’t feel your absolute best, remember your why’s and who you are for you are women clothed in strength and dignity.
“Don’t limit yourself because you are the product of your competence.”
