Being a woman in a male-dominated field comes with a set of challenges. Nevertheless, it is a barrier of sorts Virisila Maramanivalu is ready to take on.
The Serea, Naitasiri lass is a probationary firefighter based at the Navua Fire Station and is the only woman in a sea of male counterparts.
She is confident about succeeding in her field. She not only has deep admiration for her uniform, she is equally determined to live up to the roles and responsibilities that come with it.
“I believe that I am the first woman in the Central Division to be employed in this new fire station,” the 28-year-old told this newspaper.
“I hope we will work together to help each other when there’s a fire.”
Ms Maramanivalu is also the first female firefighter from her village.
“I come from a poor family background, and I am the first female firefighter in my village. I am so happy and proud that I am the only female firefighter in Navua.
“This is my first posting. I was told that I won’t be able to work here because all these firefighters are men, so I had to work in Lami station for three weeks and wait for the opening of this Navua station.”
The newly built Navua Fire Station has separate female quarters, which makes life for Ms Maramanivalu much easier.
“I am happy with the condition of this new station. What I like the most about being a firefighter is that I get to serve people and help them during a fire.”
Her struggles throughout the training period have strengthened her resolve to ensure she delivers to the best of her abilities and continues to assist people in her community.
“We come through tough trainings, and sometimes we cry, we struggle but there’s success behind all the sacrifices.
“After my passing out, I was so happy to have my family that was supporting me, especially Roko Tui Namosi’s family, because they were my guardians.
She hopes to continue working as a firefighter and aims to become an instructor in the years to come.
“My message to girls is, if you have a passion, go for it. Like in rugby, use your talents because you can get a job. I was once a rugby player; I struggled through the journey, but I managed to get a job after all those sacrifices.”
