For years, Emosi Jimson Gavin Mara worked tirelessly to keep his dream alive – guarding campuses at night, handling baggage at the airport, washing cars and even selling food parcels during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic – all in pursuit of an education.
On Wednesday, the 29-year-old from Nawaisomo, Naitasiri, finally walked across the stage during the Fiji National University graduation to receive his Certificate IV in Electrical Engineering and complete his apprenticeship as an electric fitter mechanic with Electricity Fiji Ltd.
Mr Mara’s journey was far from conventional.
Raised in Vatukoula and educated at Nelson High School, he began studying mathematics and physics at the University of the South Pacific’s Laucala Bay campus. But with school fees to pay, he took on his first job as a security guard at the FNU’s Derrick and Nasinu campuses.
“I was studying maths and physics at USP, and my first job was as a security guard with FNU so I could pay my fees,” he shared.
Determined to keep moving forward, Mr Mara later left Suva for Nadi where he worked as a baggage handler with Fiji Airways. His search for stability saw him move through several jobs over the years, including working in sales at the Sugar City Pharmacy, washing cars, and later joining Motor Winders Fiji. Eventually, he secured employment with EFL as a meter reader – a role that would later change the course of his life.
“While working with EFL, an apprenticeship program was offered, and I took that opportunity.”
Even during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Mara continued to push through adversity, selling food parcels at EFL Lautoka to earn an income. Looking back on his journey, he said the struggles and setbacks had only strengthened his faith and determination.
“From being a security guard at FNU to now graduating from FNU, and from selling food parcels at EFL to now working with EFL, it has truly been a blessing.”
Mr Mara shared a message of encouragement for others facing hardships, saying silent prayers and perseverance do not go unnoticed.
“I am blessed that God did not turn His back on me. All those silent prayers and cries for help have been answered. Good things come to those who wait.”
He dedicated the achievement to his family, who travelled from Vatukoula to witness his graduation and celebrate a milestone years in the making.
