At 29 years old, Jacklynda Molidu from Central Pentecost carries a story of quiet strength, resilience, and rising hope , a story that’s now inspiring many in Vanuatu’s para sports community.

Jacklynda’s journey began with dreams like any other young girl , but life had different plans. In Year 13, she became a mother. While her classmates continued their studies, she made the brave choice to stay home and raise her child.

“It wasn’t easy,” she admits softly. “I stayed at home until my child was in Grade 2. I wanted to make sure my child had a good start before I started thinking about myself again.”

Those years were filled with sacrifice and love. Her family, though struggling to make a living, stood by her. And as her child grew, so did her determination to return to school , to prove that it’s never too late to chase a dream.

Last year, an unexpected blessing came. A friend stepped forward and offered to pay her school fees , a simple act of kindness that changed everything.

“When my friend said they would help pay for my school, I cried. I knew this was my second chance,” Jacklynda says.

She enrolled at the University of the South Pacific (USP), starting fresh, full of courage and hope. But the costs were high, and soon she transferred to the Pacific Vocational Training Centre at Joel Toa, where she now studies ICT .

Moving to Port Vila also brought new opportunities. Jacklynda joined the disability community, where she found not only support but also a new passion , para badminton.

And she didn’t just play. She excelled.

Representing Vanuatu, Jacklynda won three medals , a bronze at the Oceania Competition after defeating New Zealand, another bronze at an international event teamed up with Papua New Guinea, and a silver medal against Australia.

Her victories marked a first for Vanuatu’s para badminton team ,a historic milestone that placed the nation’s name proudly on the world stage.

“When I won, I felt proud — not just for me, but for everyone who believed in me,” she says with a smile. “I want other young mothers and people with disabilities to know — your life doesn’t stop because of hardship. You can still dream and achieve.”

From a young mother in Pentecost to a medal-winning para athlete, Jacklynda Molidu’s story is one of grace, determination, and the power of second chances.