In the picturesque village of Nasuva, Fiji, Selaima Matagasa Tuisavu’s extraordinary journey of resilience and dedication unfolded. Growing up in a supportive family with a farmer father, she was instilled with a robust work ethic and strong community values alongside her two siblings.
Selaima attended various schools, including Vudibasoga Catholic School and St John’s College, where she excelled despite the challenges of limited resources. After the birth of her son, she returned home but seized growth opportunities by applying for a position as a ward assistant at Labasa Hospital. Her determination impressed the matron, who encouraged her to pursue nursing. Graduating in 2004, she became a community health nurse, tirelessly providing care to more than 3,000 individuals in rural Macuata, often navigating tough terrains on horseback.
Her career took a notable leap in 2017 when she joined the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria, becoming the only woman in her unit specializing in emergency care under challenging conditions. Returning to Fiji in 2019, Selaima found herself managing COVID-19 patients during the pandemic, a task that required profound leadership and empathy. Her efforts in establishing a level-one field hospital were vital in caring for patients and supporting their families through difficult news.
Promoted to Nurse Unit Manager in 2021, and later Chief Supervisor at Labasa Hospital, Selaima sought new challenges and transitioned to the National Fire Authority as a paramedic manager. In this role, she pioneered Fiji’s first pre-hospital care program, showcasing her commitment to healthcare innovation.
Selaima Tuisavu’s journey exemplifies the spirit of resilience and selflessness, proving that true heroes often wear uniforms and shoulder the responsibility of their communities. She delivers an inspiring message to youth: “It’s not the end of the world. Strive for your goals, even if you start from scratch.” Her story highlights the profound impact individuals can make in the face of adversity, offering hope and encouragement to all, particularly in challenging times.
This narrative serves as a reminder that dedication and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements, inspiring others to follow their paths towards fulfilling their goals.
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