"The difference between school and life is that in school you are taught and then tested. In life you are given a test that teaches you a lesson." - Iliesa Delana
Months after becoming the first Fijian and also the first Pacific Islander to win a gold medal at the Paralympics, Iliesa Delana not only remains a person with a firm interest for sports but he is also a source of inspiration for many Fijians.
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| Iliesa Delana with his gold medal Source: www.zimbio.com |
September 4 will certainly be a date that Delana will remember throughout his life because that was the day he made it all happen.
Bagging gold in front of a record crowd, and that too at the highest level of competition certainly did not come easy for the man from Nadroga.
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| Delana attempting his jump. Source: www.zimbio.com |
The fruit from making a lot sacrifices and coming through all those hardships has certainly been sweet for Delana who now acts as a beacon of inspiration for many Fijians not only in the sports field but also in other facets of life.
The country's leader also praised Delana of his accomplishments in saying that Delana has certainly done his country proud.
Fiji's newest treasure has now joined the fight to tackle the issue of bullying in schools. Delana tries to tackle this mammoth task through newly established Iliesa Delana Foundation.
We all should be proud with what all this individual has achieved so far and how much he is actually giving back to the people.
If a person with his ability can do so much then one can only wonder what we all can achieve given that we set our mind and hearts to it.
Inspirational to all Fijians
ReplyDeleteHere's a man, who through many challenges in life and great perseverance, has achieved something no one in Fiji and the Pacific could. I believe what sets this individual apart is his ability to look past his disability and remain disciplined and be humble. Delana's feat has challanged the stereotypes. He continues to inspire. As it is rightly said, "beauty is all inclusive." Respect, Delana!
ReplyDeleteTrying to emulate Delana's achievements will only come through sacrifices and hard-work. I feel that the biggest obstacle that people face is when the time comes to put in the hard yards because it is normally very easy to talk about hard work but putting words into actions is the hard bit. Thank you Kelvin.
DeleteHard work and success are intertwined. His legacy will be cherished by all Fijian, a splendid and remarkable individuals that uplifts the heart of many. Even with his condition he became the center of the world, a true leadership qualities for our young generation that whatever life may put you through you have the will power to change the world. Delana, a hero and Fiji's own born star!!!!Vinaka
ReplyDeleteFiji is proud of her son. He is an inspiration especially for our disabled people. He proves that they can do anything they want and be anything they want to become. "Disability is definitely not inability". Good job, young man.
ReplyDeleteThis entry makes me feel so patriotic. But aside from being an exceptional athlete and inspiration to every Fijian, disabled or not, Iliesa Delana remains one of the most humble and soft-spoken people I have ever met. A perfect role model for every young Fijian man, Iliesa preaches the value of dedication and self-belief but also that there is no crime in being gentle. You're a prize to your nation, and have made Nadroga rejoice with pride. Hakwasia, lequ boy.
ReplyDeleteA milestone achievement that will be hard to erase by any Fijian anytime soon. Makes us feel proud of our small and beloved nation Fiji. Still remember the moment when Iliesa was interviewed by the BBC television. That also a great moment for him and us.We show you our respect Iliesa and we'll always be cheering for you and your happy life. Salute you Mr Delana
ReplyDeleteA true champion & patriot . Iliesa has not only proven that a lot can be achieved through hard work and dedication but has also portrayed great sportsmanship which has gained great respect to his motherland . A salute to Delana for showing the world that Fiji also has a lot of talent to display .
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