Former radio host passes on

 By TAUNA GEORGE 
The late radio broadcaster Catherine Goroa-Raka had strived to ensure young Motu-Koitabuans made it into tertiary institutions before her death last week.
Her daughter Idau Raka told The National how eager her mother was to see young men and women from Motu-Koita reach university level due to a decline in the number of intakes every year.
“Mum was so focused on education and she made it her priority to give the young people a second chance to reach the top,” she said.
Raka said her mother was attached to the National Capital District Commission’s TVET programme where she engaged young people within Motu-Koita through various job opportunities and education.
Raka gave an insight into her mum’s vision as well as her successful radio career spanning over 26 years with the then National Broadcasting Commission.
“Mum started off with NBC in 1977 as a young announcer and became a household name during that time until 1993 when she was retrenched,” Raka said.
“She later joined Wantok Radio Light in 2003 until 2008.
“She also had a short stint with Lalokau FM and did part time with FM Central.
“As the years rolled on she decided to try politics where she successfully became the first ever women’s representative in the Motu-Koita Assembly.
Raka said after being unsuccessful in vying for a second term in politics, her mum joined the NCDC TVET programme and worked there until her passing.
Raka described her mum as the backbone of the family and a great supporter to her dad,” she said.
“I give credit to her for all that she’s done for us as kids.
“She is an inspiration to us. She left a legacy for us to follow.”
The 58-year-old former broadcaster from Kilakila and Hanuabada in NCD died of cancer.
She is survived by her husband, four children and nine grandchildren.