PC: USP via Facebook
From the small island communities of the Solomon Islands to the graduation stage of the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Lautoka, Jennifer Hunuehu Kinikoroa has always carried one thing with her: the dream to preserve and share her culture.
Growing up, Jennifer watched her grandparents work tirelessly to uphold the traditions and values of their people. Their quiet strength and dedication created something in her, a desire to do the same. But she also knew that to truly protect and promote her heritage in a changing world, she needed more than passion, she needed education.
“USP Lautoka Campus became a place where I could learn, grow, and connect with other Pacific islanders who shared the same dreams,” Jennifer said. Like many students, she faced moments of self-doubt and exhaustion. But her family’s encouragement, her community’s faith in her, and her own perseverance helped her push through every late-night study session and every demanding assignment.
Her recent achievement, a postgraduate diploma in Commerce, is more than a certificate. For Jennifer, it is a tribute. “As I walked across the stage… I couldn’t help but think of my grandparents, parents, my husband, and family. This degree is a testament to their hard work, their belief in me, and their sacrifices.”
Jennifer’s academic journey was made possible in part by a scholarship from the New Zealand government, a gesture she’s deeply grateful for. Now, equipped with knowledge and fueled by purpose, she is ready to honor her roots and bring her culture to the world.
Jennifer’s story is a powerful reminder that education is not just about personal success. It’s a bridge between generations, a pathway to cultural preservation, and a light for those yet to follow.
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[Source: USP] edited by iumi stori
