Becoming a journalist is not just about reading the news, but more so of having an important responsibility in bringing about the immense art of storytelling in our Pacific and around the globe.
One woman who has taken up the challenges to study not only journalism but politics in one of the most sought after regional institutions in the Pacific is Shivaali Shrutika.
This 21-year-old originally from Qeleloa in Nadi but brought up in Saweni, Lautoka is an ambitious student pursuing a degree in bachelor of arts at the University of the South Pacific.
Ms Shrutika said growing up was not always easy, but she was taught valuable lifelong lessons about how to overcome the trials and tribulations in life.
“Life growing up for me was full of challenges yet constructive. I still have a long way to go, however, experience has taught me a lot and I’m deeply grateful,” she said.
“Challenges and compromises groom and shape you in a way that you will be your own parent and at the same time you will be your own child.”
As a little girl the news on the television captivated her to the point that she would imitate the voices and actions of news presenters.
“Since childhood I wanted to be a journalist as I was so motivated through Fiji One news. I was always in the living room when my dad would turn on the TV to watch the evening news.
Ms Shrutika said her decision to study politics was because she hoped to play a role in leadership and was always involved in decision-making scenarios.
“I have a plan and I’m sticking to it. I love problem-solving and another part I wouldn’t mind leading and possibly being a representative for my people of Fiji.
“These majors are interesting and relatable in my life because that’s just my nature and personality.
“I see myself as a bold person and I’ll call out the wrong if I see one. ”
Besides studying and work, she is committed to a spiritual and faith-based NGO called Kailaasa Fiji.
The organisation is heavily involved in many charitable projects related to serving humanity and reviving Hinduism.
“Where do I see myself in 10 years time? Well, it is a dream of mine to be successful and a person the younger generation can look up to and learn from.
“I am will commit to learning and transforming myself every day and in turn help my younger colleagues.”
The Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism Sri Paramashiva Nithyananda is someone she is grateful for.
“He is the star of my show, all I am today is because of him. I do not know what I would have been today without him.”
Her advice to others who may want to follow the same career path is to “trust the process, be bold and build a constructive network of colleagues and friends. Always speak the truth no matter what and you will be a bright shining star one day”.
