Finding your passion at a young age is a magical feeling that can translate curiosity into determination and achievement.
This statement resonates well with Freda Junara Fasavalu. Born on March 3, 2002 in Samoa, Ms Fasavalu is the youngest of three siblings.
She was raised by both parents until they separated when she was at kindergarten.
Following her parent’s separation, her mother and all her siblings moved to Fiji with the hope of starting a new life. Growing up under the care of a single mother taught her the true meaning of determination and resilience.
It allowed her to learn the values of hard work and independence and shape her mindset to strive for self-reliance.
“My childhood was marked with a sense of uniqueness within my family dynamics,” she said.
“From a young age, I exuded energy and curiosity, questioning the norms and structures of my environment.
“I was told I stood out due to my jubilant demeanour and inquisitive nature of frequently challenging the traditional roles assigned to males and females within our household and cultures.”
At a young age she developed an interest in law, but more importantly to disprove those who assumed women were not fit for any legal position.
“My passion to study law ignited at the age of seven during a family gathering,” she said.
“A relative from my mum’s side said I could one day become a lawyer. I was intrigued, so I delved into the concept of what it meant to be one and the weight of a lawyer’s responsibilities.
“So, what initially started out as curiosity evolved into a profound passion to study law.
“Someone told me I would not make it in the legal field as a female. This was sufficient for me to work hard and prove for myself despite the challenges or obstacles in life.
“I would strive towards achieving my goals and ambitions.”
Ms Fasavalu is currently pursuing a law degree at University of the South’s Laucala Campus, a program that takes four years to complete followed by an additional six months doing a Professional Diploma in Legal Practice(PDLP).
In addition to studying law, the ambitious young woman is also enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts program.
However, her intentions are to continue her studies in the future focusing on additional law units to qualify for a PDLP and practice as a lawyer.
She says one of her best pieces of advice is to always keep God in one’s thoughts.
“The best advice I have received is to prioritise my own personal development over comparing myself with others.
“Instead of worrying about how others are living their lives, the focus should be on continuously striving to improve and grow in all aspects.
“My mum would always reminded me to maintain peace, keep God in my thoughts and to pray continuously.
This guidance is a constant reminder that helps ground me and keep me steadfast in the face of life’s challenges.”
According to Ms Fasavalu, the most enjoyable part of studying law is the opportunity to delve into fascinating case laws.
This has helped deepen her understanding of different legal fields, and engaging in moot court sessions and debates.
Besides studying law, Ms Fasavalu is a board member of Save the Children Fiji, USP Buddy, part of the United Nations Association Fiji, member of the Law Students Association, Rotuman Students Association at USP, and a recent volunteer at WWF.
She is currently employed at Goodman Fielder.
In five years, Ms Fasavalu hopes to “actively engage in taking concrete action in shaping her future.
“I am committed to establishing strong social networks and striving for success, ultimately aiming for a life characterised by independence, self-reliance and personal achievement.”
