Monisha Shivani Prasad’s intention in life was never to blend in, and on her Fiji National University (FNU) graduation day recently, she stood out in her crisp white Fiji Maritime Academy (FMA) uniform.
The 24-year-old dreams of the day she commands a vessel and be addressed as Captain Monisha.
After attaining her Diploma in Nautical Science from the University, the aspiring captain aims to motivate females to take up careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
“I started studies in 2017 and this has been a very long and rewarding journey for me. I am actually very excited to have graduated and to be the only Fijian of Indian descent girl in my batch. This is a very proud moment for me,” Prasad said excitedly.
“Women can be great leaders and mentors, and I would like to be a motivation to others to take up this career so we can dominate this field.”
“It may sometimes get tough for females, but you know what they say: girls run the world!.”
The former St Joseph Secondary School student’s biggest inspiration in her life has been her father, and she acknowledges the support of her family in her tough journey.
“It has been a tough journey studying in a traditionally male-dominated field, whereby women are always undermined, as a matter of fact, women make great leaders and mentors.”
“My dad always worked hard to achieve his dreams and never gave up, and that inspired me to never give up as well. It has been a tough journey, and my family has supported me a lot. I am very grateful for them.”
“I love the profession I have chosen. I have an immense love for the sea. Sea time provided me with the opportunity to be able to see all the islands in Fiji, except for the Yasawa Islands, which is next on my list,” she said.
Prasad said studying at FNU was an enriching experience, and she wants to encourage students to pursue their education at the institution.
