At just 25 years old, Stephany Aggie Kautoga has achieved a remarkable milestone, being officially admitted to the Bar of Fiji.
Hailing from Togalevu, Ba, and a proud mother of one son, Kautoga’s journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, faith, and the unyielding support of family.
“Reaching this milestone is not just my achievement – it belongs to my family, my loved ones, and God who has guided me every step of the way,” she shared.
Growing up in Navua, Kautoga witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of domestic violence on families. These early experiences ignited her determination to pursue law, with the hope of giving a voice to the vulnerable and ensuring justice for those who suffer in silence.
Her passion deepened when a personal experience with domestic violence made her realise the critical need for advocates who could stand up and say, “This isn’t right.”
It was then that she knew her calling – to become a lawyer who could protect the rights of others when they are unable to speak for themselves.
Kautoga credits her late grandmother as one of her greatest influences: “She was an educated, strong, and principled woman who inspired me to pursue my goals with integrity. Her belief in the power of education and her quiet strength guided me on this path.”
Choosing The University of the South Pacific (USP) to pursue her legal education was a natural step. She credited USP’s quality programme offering and its deep connection to the Pacific context, which gave her both academic excellence and practical understanding of the region’s unique challenges.
Reflecting on her time at USP’s School of Law and Social Sciences (SoLaSS), she described it as “challenging yet rewarding,” teaching her resilience, critical thinking, and perseverance.
The moment of admission to the Bar, before the Honourable Chief Justice, Justice Salesi Temo, was one of pride, humility, and responsibility. “It felt like the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice, but also the beginning of my duty to serve justice with integrity,” she said.
Kautoga is most passionate about criminal law, where she aims to ensure that justice is fairly served for both victims and the accused. “Criminal law plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and order in society, and I want to contribute to protecting the vulnerable and marginalised.”
As a USP-trained lawyer, she hopes to advocate for fair and effective criminal justice systems across Fiji and the Pacific. “My goal is to help create a safer and more just society for everyone, ensuring that legal processes remain accessible and equitable,” she affirmed.
To aspiring law students, Kautoga offers this advice: “Believe in your ability to succeed and don’t be afraid to pursue your passion. The journey may be tough, but the rewards of making a difference through law are worth it.”
About USP School of Law and Social Sciences (SoLaSS): The University of the South Pacific’s School of Law and Social Sciences is a leading institution in the Pacific, offering programmes that equip students with strong legal knowledge while addressing the region’s unique challenges. Graduates are trained to serve with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to justice.
