THE military remains a challenging organisation for women, says Navy Commander Commodore Timoci Natuva.
Speaking during the closing of a three-day Gender Responsive Training Workshop for 30 servicewomen in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in Suva last month, he said he wanted this perception to change.
“It’s a very difficult organisation for women. For those that joined in the ’80s or joined in the ’90s, I believe nothing much has changed,” he said.
“The way we perceive women, the way we respect them, or the way we deal with them.
“One of my first jobs when I took up this role was to apologise to our women for the wrongs committed against them. That marked the beginning of a new journey.
“I developed four intents, three of which focussed directly on people. Too often, we concentrate on technology and money and forget the people who make the organisation function.”
Cmdr Natuva said leadership played a key role in ensuring every officer was valued.
“As leaders, we must understand others and put ourselves in the shoes of our junior sailors.
“The army’s structure often flows from the top down, and we do not always consider whether someone is male or female or the challenges they may face.
“We need to approach others with humility and view situations with empathy.”
One of the participants, Petty Officer Palu Sokoiwasa, said the training reminded her of the important role they played in the military and how it impacted both women and men.
“It also reinforced the importance of looking after ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally, as this affects our decision-making in our career,” she said.
Fiji Navy Commander Commodore Timoci Natuva presents a certificate to a participant at the military gender responsive training in Suva. Picture: SUPPLIED
