Breaking Barriers: Lusiana Talatoka’s Journey to Success in Plumbing

Lusiana Talatoka’s inspiring journey highlights her determination and resilience as she crowned her efforts with a graduation ceremony at Pacific Polytech in Labasa, where she obtained a National Certificate in Plumbing and Sheetmetal Level Three. As the eldest of ten siblings, Talatoka faced significant challenges, including health issues that caused her to leave school prematurely. Nevertheless, she forged ahead, demonstrating that obstacles can serve as stepping stones to success.

Reflecting on her experiences, Talatoka shared that becoming a single mother at 19 served as a pivotal moment that ignited her desire to pursue her education. With the support of her mother, who encouraged her to return to school, she enrolled at Pacific Polytech and committed herself to her studies. During her time there, she completed a three-month attachment with the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) in Labasa, which has now led to her joining WAF as an apprentice.

Talatoka, a 23-year-old mother of a two-year-old boy, expresses confidence in her ability to succeed in a male-dominated field, declaring, “I am an independent and fearless woman who has ambition, and nothing can stop me from achieving it.” Her gratitude toward her mother for unwavering support emphasizes the vital role that encouragement plays in shaping one’s aspirations.

Notably, Talatoka’s achievement accompanies steady progress among women entering traditionally male-dominated professions, as seen in the stories of women like Kelera Vela, another recent graduate from Pacific Polytech who pursued a career in automotive electrical and electronics. They are paving the way for future generations to break gender stereotypes and pursue their dreams in various skilled trades.

This uplifting narrative showcases the power of perseverance and support, illustrating the positive changes occurring within society as more women step into professions once reserved for men. With inspiring role models like Lusiana Talatoka leading the way, the future shines bright for women in all fields of work.