Meresaini Simpson has made headlines by graduating with a qualification in automotive engineering from the Pacific Polytech Nausori Campus, breaking boundaries for women in this traditionally male-dominated field. At 36 years old and a mother of two, Simpson took the bold step of leaving her children in Savusavu to pursue her National Certificate Level Three in Automotive Mechanical Engineering, showcasing that women can thrive in careers often reserved for men.
At the graduation ceremony held at Vunimono Hall, Ms. Simpson expressed her desire to inspire other women, stating, “I want to encourage the women out there that they also can come and get through along with this.” Her journey has been challenging, as she balanced part-time work with her studies while providing support for her children, who were left in the care of family.
The single mother utilized financial assistance from the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS), which helped facilitate her educational pursuits. Already a graduate in tourism studies from Fiji National University, she acknowledged the significant role Pacific Polytech played in her journey, remarking, “If I did not know about Polytech from my friends and other colleagues, I would not have been a graduate today.”
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who presided over the graduation, commended the 181 graduates for seizing their opportunities for further education. Although her children were unable to attend the ceremony due to school commitments, Ms. Simpson’s message of perseverance rang clear: “You can do it. Keep carrying on so you can go out in the field of work so you can gain more experience.”
Simpson’s achievement is part of a growing trend where women are breaking barriers and succeeding in automotive and other skilled trades. Her story echoes the sentiments of other successful women, such as Kelera Vela, who also graduated in automotive studies, demonstrating a collective push towards gender empowerment in fields where women’s representation has historically been low.
This progress not only highlights individual triumphs but also serves as a reminder that with determination and support, women can challenge societal norms and excel in any profession they choose. The stories of both Simpson and her peers encourage future generations to pursue their ambitions unencumbered by traditional gender stereotypes, paving the way for a more inclusive workforce.
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