Hailing from the villages of Lotopa, Leauvaa, Toomatagi, Vaigaga, and Moamoa, 16-year-old Charlotte Mah Yuen was awarded the prestigious title of dux at Robert Louis Stevenson College for the class of 2024. 

Charlotte's journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs, making this recognition even more meaningful for herself.

"This year was very challenging, and there were a lot of ups and downs, so I wasn't entirely sure whether I'd be valedictorian or not,” she said.

"Upon hearing the announcement, I just felt very thankful to God. It is proof that God's love for us is much more than we could ever imagine.” 

In addition to her academic achievements, Charlotte served as Head Girl, which she credited as a testament to her hard work. 

“It proves that nothing's impossible and that you can do whatever you can - time management is very important, and it's good to balance your social life and academic life,” she said.

Charlotte's close friends and family members showered her with love, with many travelling long distances to witness her graduation. 

“Some of them, even from New Zealand, flew all the way here just to be with me. So my award is dedicated to them, and, of course, all glory be to God," Charlotte expressed gratefully. 

Charlotte's cousin Franciera Mauai, who surprised Charlotte by flying in from Auckland shared how proud she was of her cousin’s accomplishments. 

“It means everything because Charlotte doubts herself so much, it's really good to see that there's something to show for her hard work," said Mauai. 

"It's such a big step for her to realize how special she is and how much her hard work means something,” added Mauai. 

Charlotte's mother, Frances Mah Yuen, could not hold back her emotions as she expressed pride and love for her daughter, adding that her daughter's achievements have been all worth the sleepless nights. Frances said she and her husband, Eti Mah Yuen, were proud of their daughter.

As Charlotte celebrated with her close family, she shared her aspirations for her future. 

“The next step is to hopefully get into N.U.S and then aim for scholarships, and then get into a good university,” she said.

She aspires to become a lawyer. 

Being one of the 62 graduates in the class of 2024, Charlotte distinguished herself academically, placing first in subjects such as History, English, Geography, Computer Studies, and Development Studies, along with receiving a general excellence award.