At the Women’s Invigorating the Nation Convention 2025 (WIN 2025) held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Charlene Sulueti Tafuna’i shared her inspiring journey as Fiji’s first female aircraft maintenance engineer. Discussing the importance of mentorship, Ms. Tafuna’i conveyed her belief that women can achieve their aspirations with the right support.
Reflecting on her experiences, she credited her father with igniting her potential after he encouraged her to enter the Miss World Fiji Pageant, a title she would go on to win in 2014. This pivotal moment led her to pursue a career in aviation, building upon her achievements to become a trailblazer at Air Terminal Services (ATS).
Despite predominantly receiving mentorship from male figures, she emphasized that mentorship transcends gender and highlighted the unconditional support one can receive from mentors regardless of their relationship. Her keynote also touched on her battle with blood cancer, showcasing the strength found in community and familial support, especially from her mother, whose faith played a crucial role in her recovery.
Ms. Tafuna’i’s journey challenges traditional gender roles, embodying a blend of engineering expertise and artistry, reinforcing the message that women can pursue diverse passions. She encourages women to be confident in expressing their passions and pursuing their dreams, empowering them to break boundaries often set by societal expectations.
The WIN 2025 convention merges various discussions centered around women’s leadership and representation, including those highlighted by Fiji’s Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran. She has stressed the need for mentorship and support networks to combat gender disparities in leadership roles. The discussions aim to foster a culture of inclusivity and empower women not just in their careers but in all facets of life.
The hopeful narrative emerging from convention attendees and speakers paints a picture of progress. These stories of perseverance, empowerment, and mutual support among women signal a brighter future for gender equality in Fiji and beyond. As initiatives continue to champion women’s representation in leadership, there is an optimistic outlook for a more inclusive society where women’s contributions are recognized and valued.
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