Lusiana Turogo, a 22-year-old single mother, has recently embarked on a path that is as much about fulfilling a cherished dream as it is about personal strength and determination.

She was one of the 223 police officers who recently joined the Fiji Police Force, a milestone achievement that resonates deeply with her life’s story.

Lusiana’s roots trace back to Vaturova in Cakaudrove, with maternal ties to Namuana in Kadavu. Despite her deep connections to these places, it was Lami where she grew up and where she nurtured her dreams.

A former student of St Joseph Secondary School, her life took a dramatic turn last year with the passing of her beloved father. His dream was to see her don the police uniform, a dream that she has now embraced with all her heart.

Tears welled up in her eyes as she recalled her father’s unwavering support.

“My dad always wanted me to become a police officer. When he passed away, it felt like a part of me was lost, but his dream for me became my guiding light,” she said.

“I knew I had to make that dream come true, not just for him but for myself and my son. I hope he is proud of me now.”

Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood with the demanding regimen of police training has been a daunting task for her.

Every morning, as she kisses her three-year-old son goodbye, she is reminded of the love and hope that fuel her journey.

“My son is my biggest motivation. Every time I see his smile, I find the strength to keep going. Everything I do is for him and our future.”

The challenges of being a woman in the policing field are not lost on Lusiana.

She speaks candidly about the hurdles she has faced, and the strength required to overcome them.

“Being a woman in this field is tough, but it’s a job anyone with determination can do. We face many challenges, but they only make us stronger.”

Joining Batch 67 of the police recruits is not just a career move for Lusiana; it’s a heartfelt tribute to her father’s legacy and a bold statement of her own resilience.

Her journey through training has been marked by moments of intense struggle and profound growth.

She has embraced the physical and mental rigor, viewing it as a crucial step towards becoming an officer who can serve with compassion and strength.

“I want to serve my community and make a difference. Being a police officer is not just about enforcing the law; it’s about helping people and making our community a safer place for everyone.”

Lusiana’s story is not just her own; it is a testament to the potential within every single mother who is striving against the odds.

As she navigates the challenges of her new career, Lusiana remains steadfast in her goals.

Her journey is a powerful narrative of breaking barriers and setting an example for other women. She is determined to prove that single mothers can excel in demanding professions, and that with enough determination, dreams can indeed come true.

“If you have a dream, don’t let anything stop you. Work hard, stay determined, and you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”