‘Women can also do it’
VERENAISI Navoliwa wants to gain all the skills to become a good carpenter. For that, she thanks her uncle who’s been her inspiration.
The 18-year-old from Nadroga was not able to complete high school because of financial constraints.
But with her uncle’s advice and encouragement, she decided to take up a Certificate in Carpentry Level III course at Pacific Polytech in Nausori.
Ms Navoliwa has been living with her aunt at Vuci East while she completes her six-month course which she hopes will help her build a career in the construction industry.
“I am the youngest of two brothers and five sisters,” she said.
“I’d like to do well in all aspects of carpentry and gain all the skills.”
She knows a lot of men who are doing carpentry, but she doesn’t believe it’s solely a man’s job.
“Women can also do it if they’re given the chance. They need encouragement from their families,” she said.
“This is a skilled job area and if women are given proper training, I believe they will be able to do well here as well.”
Ms Navoliwa chose carpentry because it’s a handy trade.
“Actually, I was inspired by my uncle, Samuela Verevakawalu, who is a soldier.
“He told me that there is a future in this industry and that I would be able to do it.
“I always take his advice and took this advice as well.”
After completing her course, Ms Navoliwa said she’d like to gain experience in the industry.
“After that I want to move overseas to greener pastures so that I am able to support my family better,” she said.
“But first, I want to work here and gain a lot of experience. I want to learn all aspects of carpentry so that I’m able to become multiskilled.”
Ms Navoliwa said girls who’re unable to do well in school could take up short trade courses at Pacific Polytech to secure their future.
“There are lot of trade courses available and those girls who are not able to do well in schools can take up these courses at Pacific Polytech.
“I know some of these courses are mostly taken up by boys, but there is no harm in girls taking it up as well because I know in some areas, girls can do better than boys.
“So, don’t think that you cannot do it. Give it a go and you’ll love it.”