Ruci Vukialau is on the brink of making her mark in a traditionally male-dominated industry after graduating from Fiji National University in Nasinu. At just 19 years old, she earned her Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling and is poised to enter the workforce following her 12 weeks of training with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
Her interest in tiling was sparked by watching her father as he worked on home repairs. Despite the challenges of being one of the few women in her class, Ms. Vukialau persevered. She shared that there were moments when she struggled to voice her thoughts during classes, often opting for silence while working among her male peers.
“My dream was to succeed and progress in my career. There were tough times, but I was fortunate to have a supportive network that encouraged me to keep studying,” she remarked. Her faith also played a crucial role in her motivation to complete the course.
As she prepares to enter the tiling industry, Ruci is aware of the demanding hours and the need for flexibility, which can complicate the balance between work, family, and personal life.