As I reflect on my journey through life, I salute my dear mother who was part of the begining chapter in my journal as a trade unionist. She used to look after my children and family meals as I attended agms as an observer in the 80s. My fascination of the principles of trade unionism was further cultivated during the debate on motions/resolutions by fiery debators with stinging tongues. At times, thought they would come to blows but after the meeting they woukd be sitting round the tanoa laughing heartily. Learnt alot about issues of concerns during such debates, attending meetings, discussions at school, branch meetings etc & etc. I resolved that I would speak out for them, defend them, assist them in anyway I could. At times when the odds were against me, I used to reason out with my family that it was I who sought their vote and not vice versa. My Heavenly Father, complemented all that with my professional journey which begun in 1980 as a Primary School teacher, then as Secondary School teacher, then as a Teacher Educator, then as an Education Officer & finally as a Principal. This journey took me places where I was able to see, hear and experience first hand the difficulties endured by teachers for the education of the future leaders of Fiji. The principles of trade unionism which is a foundation of all values taught, learnt, acquired, read, etc made my journey more adaptable even though mountains, rivers, rapids, cliffs etc were in the way. That strengthened me to leave the comfort in stature, monetary gain of the position of SEO and to revert to the school system as I didnot want to be party to lies, deceit, etc. My husband stood by me for the decision was by mutual agreement. I pay tribute to his unwavering support in the years we spent together. Leadership in trade unionism is not the ego,the salary, the qualification, the status in Society, the acquired assets, the bank account but the passion for selfless service, humility, honesty and empathy. For all these things shall be a living testimony in our almanac of life. In Denver the greatest lesson learnt was when the NEA PRESIDENT Mr Dennis Von Roekel brought his wife and century old mother with him to the Human and Civil Rights Awards dinner as his way of paying tribute to their support.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Jul 2014 05:50:14 +0000
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