Kesaia Vika Dumukoro is a remarkable figure in the realm of land surveying, as she has broken barriers to become the first registered female land surveyor in the Ministry of Lands. At just 29 years old, her journey is a testament to perseverance and resilience, deeply inspired by the wisdom of Confucius: “It does not matter how slow you go, as long as you do not stop.”
Raised in Sigatoka Valley, Kesaia attributes her strong work ethic to her parents, who welcomed anyone into their home, instilling in her a sense of community and the drive to succeed. She pursued her education at Fiji National University (FNU) without a clear career path initially but ultimately chose land surveying, motivated by a desire to finish her studies and make her family proud.
After graduating, Kesaia faced the daunting task of finding work in a field traditionally dominated by men. To make ends meet, she took up a job in a Korean restaurant while looking for opportunities in land surveying. It was a call from her father that changed her fortunes, leading her to a position at the Ministry of Lands. Kesaia’s excitement was amplified when she was soon deployed to work in the field—an opportunity not often available to women in her profession.
Throughout her journey, she encountered numerous challenges, including navigating harsh weather and tough terrains, but her commitment to proving herself as a capable land surveyor never wavered. She shared that being in a male-dominated field has taught her the importance of hard work, stating, “the hard labour by men, the women also have to perform.”
Kesaia aims to hone her skills further before considering new opportunities in either government or the private sector. Her advice to women entering similar fields is empowering: “Be strong in your work ethics and work hard.”
Her story resonates with the current movement for gender equality in fields like surveying, as highlighted in a recent push within Fiji’s Institute of Surveyors to increase female participation. With ongoing initiatives and mentorship programs, the future looks promising for aspiring female surveyors, echoing Kesaia’s sentiment that dedication and resilience can lead to success in any career.
Kesaia’s journey exemplifies how women’s representation in traditionally male-dominated professions can break through barriers, paving the way for future generations. It is a message of hope and strength that inspires not only women looking to enter these fields but also society at large to promote inclusivity and equality.
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