School is not just a place for knowledge.
It is a space where students can make mistakes, learn from them and become better versions of themselves.
Newly admitted lawyer Ruth Garry firmly believes in this mantra.
Last week, Ms Garry began her legal journey in Fiji after being admitted to the bar. She immediately expressed her eagerness to serve the community.
With maternal links to Rabi and paternal links to Kiribati, Ms Garry grew up in Suva.
“My father is from Kiribati, so he came here to study at FIT, then married my mum and stayed here and we went back with him to Kiribati,” she said.
“When I was a child, I didn’t think about what I wanted to be, but I had cousins who influenced me into doing law and I found it very interesting.
“I’ve always been interested in international relations, having done a double degree in International Relations and Bachelor of Law, and I am interested in human rights and environmental issues.
“Right now, I’m still trying to get experience and, you need to learn first the civil (matters) so that’s what I’m doing now.
“I’m still learning, and this first step has been key. This will open the pathway.”
Ms Garry attended Bond University in 2019, where she pursued a diploma in legal studies and continued to do a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of International Relations.
She graduated in 2022.
“I had to take time off to take care of my grandmother. Sadly she’s not with us, after her passing, I did my GDLP (Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice).
“I would like to dedicate this to my grandmothers from both my mother and father’s side. They were both strong women and they motivated me to continue my education.”
She works for one of Fiji’s most seasoned litigators, Feizal Haniff.
Ms Garry believes students should never fear making mistakes but have the resolve to learn from them.
“When you go to school, don’t be nervous, because every other student there is in the same boat as you.
“They are all learning too…and that’s your time to make mistakes and learn from them.”
