FROM a young age, there was no doubt in Alini Raitamata’s mind about the path she would take in life.
The lass, originally from Naitutu, Namalata, Tailevu, has weathered several storms to be able to don the black robes of justice.
Her admission to the Bar last month has further cemented her resolve to become a lawyer her late father would be proud of.
“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always dreamt of becoming a lawyer,” she said.
“This is what I’ve always wanted.
“My family has always known that this has been a career choice of mine since I was very young.
“When I started coming towards the end of high school, going into university, there was no question in my mind as to what program I was going to take at USP.”
She said her mother had also encouraged her to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce alongside her law degree.
“In 2018, I enrolled in USP, with both a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in economics.
“In April 2024, I graduated with a degree in law and a degree in commerce and then I continued my studies for Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (PDLP) from July to December.”
However, Ms Raitamata said there were a lot of challenges involved in the process, including the six months of intensive study as part of her PDLP.
She said she managed to get through her studies with a lot of perseverance and support from her family members.
The memory of her late father also motivated her to aim for perfection.
“I lost my dad when I was 16. It was really hard for me; my mum had to shoulder the responsibility of looking after my elder sister and me. So that was one motivating factor for me as well.
“Something my father always told me was to do better than he did.”
Part of what motivated her to do so well in school was the sacrifices made by her parents to ensure she had an enjoyable childhood.
She said this got her to where she was today.
As for being admitted to the bar, Ms Raitamata said she felt very happy.
“It wasn’t an easy feat for me, so I’m overwhelmed. It wouldn’t have been possible without my family.
“I feel really happy. I also feel a bit sad because like I had mentioned, I had lost my father, and my mum is in the States, but I am happy to see my extended family to help celebrate this occasion with me.”
An avid reader, Ms Raitamata said she wished to pursue litigation in the future, within civil law or anything to do with policies or economics.
“It’s not easy, but perseverance, hard work, and reading about cases are some things that can get you far.
“I dedicate this to my mum. She has been my greatest mentor. She has seen me through and helped me financially and emotionally and she is what I aspire to be.”
