Paiyaz Sharma, a young woman from Nadi, has realized her childhood ambition of becoming a lawyer, a dream cultivated through the encouragement of a mentor during her formative years at St. Mina’s Children’s Home. Recently, she was admitted to the bar, joining 24 fellow graduates from the University of Fiji, in a testament to her resilience and unwavering determination.
Sharma’s journey into the legal profession was inspired by the director of her children’s home, who recognized her potential and urged her to pursue a career in law. This pivotal advice propelled her through numerous challenges on her academic journey. To attend classes, Sharma undertook a grueling routine, traveling daily from Nadi to Suva, rising at 3:30 AM to catch the bus and returning late at night after a full day of studies. “Yes, I faced a lot of challenges,” she reflects, yet her dedication to education never faltered.
She highlights the significance of hard work and urges others to chase their goals with tenacity, regardless of obstacles. The children’s home not only offered her a nurturing environment but also facilitated her educational pursuits, laying a solid foundation for her future.
Sharma’s husband, Ronal Singh, commended her ability to juggle her academic responsibilities while maintaining family life, acknowledging her commitment and dedication that ultimately led to her emergence as one of Fiji’s newest legal professionals.
As Sharma stands on the brink of her legal career, she is eager to explore new paths in her profession, celebrating the outcomes of her hard work that started with a single word of encouragement. Her story transcends personal success; it serves as a beacon of inspiration to many, especially young women, illustrating that with support and belief, remarkable achievements are possible. The power of community and unwavering determination can shape destinies, as exemplified by Sharma’s incredible journey.