Senior Police Constable Shamshad Begum has proven to be an inspiring figure in the Fiji Police Force, demonstrating resilience and commitment while navigating a traditionally male-dominated environment. Since joining the force in May 1999, she has dedicated herself to serving her community through various roles, including at the Samabula and Nabua police stations, before transferring back to Lautoka in 2007.

Constable Begum recently received a long service and good conduct medal, a testament to her dedication and years of service. “It is indeed a challenging job for us as police officers,” she remarked, acknowledging the difficulties faced by women in law enforcement. Despite the odds, she emphasized that female officers are capable of performing the same responsibilities as their male counterparts, urging that support and recognition of women’s abilities are crucial for gender equity in policing.

Reflecting on her career, Constable Begum highlighted the significant changes in policing, particularly the need for digital literacy in today’s tech-savvy environment, which contrasts sharply with the lack of such requirements when she first joined. Being a native of Lautoka has allowed her to connect more deeply with the community she serves, enhancing the efficiency of her role.

Balancing her professional commitments with family life, Constable Begum credits her husband and children for their support, which she describes as a “pillar of strength.” She believes that pursuing a career built on passion minimizes the feeling of work.

On a broader scale, her journey echoes the experiences of many female officers, like Police Constable Sadamma from the Labasa Police Station. Both officers have received recognition for their long service and share common sentiments about overcoming challenges in male-dominated fields. They advocate for young women to stay committed to their goals and emphasize the importance of education and skills enhancement.

Constable Begum encourages aspiring female officers to strive for their ambitions, emphasizing a message of resilience and determination. Her story, along with that of other women in law enforcement, represents a hopeful narrative, demonstrating that with hard work and support, it is possible for women to break barriers and redefine the roles within the police force and beyond.

Together, these accounts highlight a positive shift towards greater gender equality in law enforcement, inspiring future generations of women to pursue their aspirations with confidence.