DESPITE life’s hardships, Makereta Valanatoma Saukuru Toroca Uculoa believes life is a great teacher.
For the 16-year-old student of Jai Narayan College, her academic and personal experiences, have shaped her into a confident individual.
Uculoa, who hails from the highlands of Navolau in Naitasiri, was born into a family of six and recalls that her family faced its fair share of challenges as she was growing up.
“Relocating to Lomaivuna Settlement in Naitasiri was particularly difficult as we had to quickly adjust to rural life,” she said.
“Despite these hardships, my siblings and I remained committed to our academic goals. Life itself became a valuable teacher as I learned to face obstacles and overcome challenges—both academically and personally—on my own.”
Earlier this year, she had the incredible opportunity to participate in the TechGirls Program, a US-based summer exchange initiative designed to empower young women aged between 15 and 17 in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Uculoa said the experience was truly transformative.
The program aimed to strengthen the global pipeline of female talent in STEM by providing hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to career pathways in these fields.
“I found out about the TechGirls Program through a post shared by the US Embassy in Suva on Facebook.
“My mother encouraged me to apply, and although the application process was challenging, it took me nearly two weeks to complete. I submitted it on time and was thrilled with the outcome.”
She said that participating in the program was life-changing
“The program taught me to be confident, open-minded, and to embrace the responsibility of being a role model in my community.
“It has broadened my horizons and deepened my passion for making a difference through technology and leadership.”
After finishing high school, Uculoa plans to pursue civil and environmental engineering because it aligns well with her current subject combination and academic interests.
“However, I remain open to exploring new career opportunities. Since childhood, I have always been curious and eager to try new things at different times, aspiring to become a doctor, a pilot, and now an engineer.
“The TechGirls Program has broadened my perspective by introducing me to a variety of career paths within the STEM field. It has helped me discover new possibilities that align with my passions, and I may consider pursuing some of these in the future.”
Uculoa enjoys engaging in a variety of hobbies in her free time, including playing volleyball, reading, baking, cooking, and drawing.
Her advice to the younger generation is to never give up on what they’re passionate about.
“Don’t let your age discourage you. Believe in yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and stay true to who you are.
“Most importantly, always place your trust in God in everything you do.”
