Ruci Vukialau is set to make her mark in a traditionally male-dominated field after graduating from Fiji National University, Nasinu. The 19-year-old has earned a Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling, which she completed through a 12-week program with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
Ruci’s aspiration to become a tile layer was inspired by her experiences watching her father work on home repairs and upgrades. She admitted that the training posed its challenges, particularly as she was often one of the few women in a male-dominated classroom.
“I faced difficulties expressing myself during class and often chose to remain silent while working with my male peers,” Ruci confessed. “However, I was driven by my dream to succeed and progress in my career. It could be exhausting, but I had a supportive group that encouraged me to persevere. My faith was also a significant source of motivation to complete the course.”
As she looks ahead to her future career, Ruci is aware of the long hours and availability that the job requires, recognizing the potential challenges it could bring for those balancing family and personal commitments.