Veronica Narayan navigates the world with a unique method, meticulously counting her turns and stops, which guides her movements. As a blind individual, she has developed an incredible ability to adapt, especially during her teenage years while using public transportation in Suva with her white cane.
Born blind on Taveuni, Veronica moved to Suva at the age of six after her family learned about the Fiji Society for the Blind through community-based rehabilitation workers. Initially, her father wanted her to attend school, but due to a lack of awareness about educational facilities for the blind, this was a challenge. After some hesitation, her grandmother agreed to let her attend a school run by the Sisters of the Lady of Nazareth.
Veronica attended St. Marcellin Primary School, where she sat next to classmates in a learning environment that felt isolating. Teachers wrote lessons on the board, and she often felt left out. Instead of succumbing to frustration, she took initiative by borrowing exercise books to Braille the notes herself, transforming her educational experience. Her persistence paid off as teachers began to accommodate her needs, leading to positive changes in her learning process.
She later moved on to Cathedral Secondary School, where the support continued, although she faced her challenges, particularly in subjects like mathematics. Veronica recognizes these hurdles in the students she teaches Braille to now, as they encounter similar difficulties, especially with subjects that require tactile learning methods.
In 2000, she spent ten months in Japan participating in a leadership course that introduced her to Japanese Braille and advanced technology, furthering her skills. After completing her pre-vocational studies in 2003, she aimed to give back to the Fiji Society for the Blind and applied for a position as a Braillist, which took four years to achieve. Her unwavering dedication to Braille, which she describes as her “pen and paper,” ultimately secured her the position in 2007.
Today, Veronica uses modern tools like non-visual desktop access (NVDA) to convert exam papers to Braille, illustrating her commitment to helping others while continuing her education. As a second-year student at Fiji National University, she pursues a Diploma in Special and Inclusive Education while working as a Braillist.
Veronica rejects the idea of surgeries aimed at restoring her sight, emphasizing acceptance of her reality and the life she leads. She relies heavily on her white cane for navigation, describing it as her “eye.” Her philosophy extends beyond her circumstances, asserting that everyone has a right to education and employment regardless of disability and encouraging others to seek assistance when needed.
Her journey exemplifies resilience and determination, and her story serves as an inspiration for those facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of education and inclusion in society.