A young graduate from the University of the South Pacific (U.S.P.) says receiving her diploma last Friday enabled her to fulfil her sick father’s wishes. 

Sinaloa Malchior of Lepea, who was among 270 graduates at last Friday’s U.S.P. graduation at the Maota o Tupulaga EFKS Hall, told the Samoa Observer that she promised her father she would graduate.

She said it has been her father’s dream for one of his daughters to graduate from a university other than the National University of Samoa. 

Last Friday she graduated with a Professional Diploma in Business Management, but her father was not able to attend her graduation, due to him being bedridden after he had a stroke two years ago.

"Dad suffered from a stroke so he isn't able to speak much, my father's dream has always been for me to graduate from U.S.P. Yes, there were times when I felt like giving up because of how busy work has been," she said. 

"But I wanted to grant my father's wish and my dad has always been proud of his children and I know he is proud of me and it is a great father's day gift, this is my gift to him.”

Her father’s condition has not improved, after she signed up for the diploma program at the U.S.P. But she says that she remains positive while praying for her father's health.

Ms. Malchior is self-employed and has been running a local business firm Samina Finance Services for almost two years while her partner is currently working in Australia.

Her employment enables her to provide for a household of 14 and they all stay together at Lepea.

Asked about her future endeavours, she said: "This isn't the end. I'm looking forward to going back to gain more skills and knowledge for running the business.”

She said it is her hope that one day she'll be able to land herself a job in the Samoa Government.

Her mother Theresa Malchior expressed how happy she was for her daughter and her achievements and continues to hope for the best for her and their family. 

"I am so happy and thankful to God for being faithful to our family. We have continuously uplifted her studies in our prayers and God has shown his love by blessing her with this diploma.”

Ms. Malchior added that she is grateful for her family and loved ones’ support, especially her parents who continue to pray for her, despite their own challenges.

She added that she is happy to have such support from everyone and hopes to reciprocate the love shown with her future success.