A FARM girl from the outskirts of Nadi has struck gold winning the most outstanding graduate award in the University of the South Pacific Bachelor of Science program.
Ashna Sharan is the 2012 recipient of the TFL-sponsored USP Gold Medal award for Most Outstanding Graduate in the Bachelor of Science Program.
A former student of Votualevu College, she left her humble farm home in Legalega to pursue further education at USP.
"I encourage aspiring and science enthusiasts, and students; if you are passionate about a particular field of study, industry, or trade, follow your heart and the sky is the limit," Ms Sharan said.
Now pursuing her masters degree, she has dedicated her success to her parents Jagdish and Urmila Sharan.
"Excelling is the best way to thank them for all that they have done," she said.
TFL's Timaima Vulimailaucala presented the award and said TFL's High Achievers Program had been recognising the achievements of youths over the years, which was in alignment with TFL's commitment to increasing ICT awareness in our communities.
Last year, the program witnessed its first two-time winner.
Penioni Narube first earned acclamation in 2006 while a student at Suva Grammar School and in 2011, he achieved yet another milestone in receiving a Telecom Fiji sponsored award as a graduate from USP.
TFL has sponsored the High Achievers Program for the high school dux and outstanding graduates for the last seven years.