In Fiji’s verdant sugarcane fields, a new wave of leadership is taking shape with Nemai Diloma, a dynamic young woman enriching the agricultural landscape as a Roving Sector Assistant with the Fiji Sugar Corporation Ltd (FSC) in Nadi. Her journey is not just a tale of personal achievement but a testament to the resilience and commitment of women in agriculture, driving significant changes in this vital sector.
At just 26 years old, Nemai is already leaving her mark in the sugar industry. A graduate of Fiji National University with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, she discovered her passion for the field upon joining FSC earlier this year.
“This role provides a fantastic chance to apply my academic knowledge while gaining practical experience in a sector crucial to Fiji’s economy,” she expressed. In her position as a Roving Sector Assistant, Nemai aids sugarcane growers throughout the entire process, from planting through to harvesting. Her proactive stance fosters a commitment to producing high-quality sugar.
“I enjoy collaborating with the growers; every day presents new challenges and learning opportunities,” she noted. Although she has encountered language barriers and navigated a male-dominated environment, Nemai’s determination and flexibility have been vital to her achievements.
“My eagerness to learn has enhanced my communication abilities, which are key to forging strong relationships with our growers,” she explained. Recently, she successfully guided a team of growers through a difficult planting season, showcasing her leadership skills.
A pivotal moment in her career arose when she took charge in the absence of a colleague, which reinforced her conviction that women can excel in leadership roles within agriculture. Her team’s successful navigation of the planting season, despite various obstacles, is a testament to her effective leadership.
Nemai credits her growth to the mentorship and support she has found at FSC. The encouragement from her colleagues has played a significant role in her journey, emphasizing the necessity of a supportive work environment for empowering women.
“The guidance from my colleagues has been crucial. Teamwork, punctuality, and dedication are essential for achieving our objectives in the sugar industry,” she emphasized. With an eye toward the future, Nemai is optimistic about the rising participation of women in agriculture, viewing it as a transformative force and a beacon of hope for the industry’s future.
“The sugar industry is filled with opportunities for women, but it requires commitment and the willingness to step beyond your comfort zone,” she advised, offering encouragement to those aspiring to follow her path.
Nemai’s journey is a rallying cry for women to seize control of their careers and play an active role in evolving the industry. “I firmly believe that women can lead and innovate in agriculture, and I am proud to be part of that transformative change,” she concluded, urging and inspiring women to step forward and make an impact in the sugar sector.