From the picturesque archipelago known for its rich marine biodiversity, Ono-i-Lau, rises the inspiring story of Helen Fifita Kava, a trailblazer in civil engineering. Raised as the sixth of eleven children in a technically adept family, Ms Kava’s passion for problem-solving and resilience has been evident since childhood. Now, as the Chief Executive Officer of Sealand Works PTE Limited, she is committed to fostering sustainable infrastructure that enhances her community.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ms Kava states, “I have always wanted to be part of the SOLUTION,” drawing inspiration from pioneering women in engineering, such as Emily Roebling, who significantly contributed to the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge. Ms Kava emphasizes that women have historically played crucial roles in successful projects around the globe, despite often working in male-dominated environments.
However, her journey has been fraught with challenges, notably gender bias that has questioned her capabilities and strength in a male-dominated field. Ms Kava candidly admits that self-doubt has sometimes hindered her progress, but with continuous support from her family, she has taken bold steps to break barriers. In 2023, she launched her own company in Ba, also affectionately known as “Soccer Crazy Town.” With a vision centered on empowerment, she is committed to employing more women, with her current workforce consisting of 40% females, a figure she aims to increase.
Emphasizing the significance of mentorship, Ms Kava highlights the vital role of networking, skills development, and emotional support to create a favorable working atmosphere, particularly for women in STEM. Among her various projects, the Varadoli project in Ba Town stands out, encompassing the development of 75 lots with planned roads, water systems, and drainage solutions, with completion anticipated in June 2025.
Balancing her demanding roles as CEO and mother, Ms Kava stresses the importance of effective time management, often dedicating late nights to ensure project success. She leads with vulnerability, underscoring the human experiences that drive motivation, and encourages others to embrace mistakes as stepping stones to growth.
Looking to the future, Ms Kava aims to nurture the next generation of female engineers, demonstrating that her story transcends engineering and focuses on creating a future where women thrive in STEM fields. By breaking down barriers and paving the way for sustainable solutions, she embodies resilience and determination.
Similar stories of perseverance among women in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as those of Vilimaina Tulia Rakai, who has excelled in electrical engineering, and Dr. Raijeli Taga, a trailblazer in science, highlight the potential for gender dynamics to shift in favor of inclusivity and equality, fostering environments where women can achieve their aspirations.
These narratives collectively emphasize that with determination, hard work, and a supportive community, women can overcome obstacles and create a brighter, more inclusive future in various sectors, particularly in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. Helen Kava’s journey, like many others, serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and the impact of female empowerment in reshaping the workforce landscape.
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