At 38, Grace Florie Sese is a woman defined by her determination, humility, and quiet confidence.
Born in Malekula with roots in Paama and raised in Port Vila, Mrs. Sese now wears many hats: she is a mother of five, a devoted wife, an accomplished administration accounts manager, a business co-founder, and a strong advocate for women in Vanuatu’s private sector.
Mrs. Sese’s journey started modestly. She began her education at Kawenu Primary School and later moved to Onesua Presbyterian College. However, financial challenges forced her to leave school after Year 10.
“I have no education papers,” she says. “But only my experience pushed me this far.” And indeed, her career is a testament to what resilience and hard work can achieve.
Her first job at Tahos Timber as a salesperson was where she built her foundation in finance and accounts. She later worked at CK Rubbish Removals and eventually found her calling at the Vanuatu Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (VASANOC), where she has served for three years as the Administration Accounts Manager. She also takes on the role of field officer, overseeing multiple sports federations.
“I love my job at VASANOC,” Mrs. Sese says. “It’s very enjoyable, and I learn so much.”
Despite being part of a small team of just five, she describes the workplace as one of cooperation, comfort, and shared passion. “I’m confident in my work and my team. We support each other.”
That confidence has spilled over into another chapter of her life, which is entrepreneurship. In 2019, Mrs. Sese and her husband started Majech Construction and Joinery, a business born out of her husband’s passion for building and her skill in finance. Without access to loans, they launched the company with pocket money and family support. The first year was tough, with competition from many established local contractors. But 2021 marked a turning point.
That same year, Mrs. Sese joined a seven-month workshop for women in business hosted by the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI). Her business plan stood out among the best, earning her a VT1 million grant that gave Majech Construction the boost it needed.
“We couldn’t have done it without the help and support from the Chamber of Commerce and the Vanuatu Business Resilience Council,” she says gratefully.
Running a business and working full-time is not without its challenges. For Mrs. Sese, the key lies in balance and good management.
“You have to know when to stop,” she explains. “After 5pm, it’s family time. Weekends are sacred—we don’t talk about work. Your body and mind need rest.”
For stress relief, Sese finds solace in music and quiet moments of self-care.
Her ability to juggle work, business, and family also comes from a strong support network. “My life coach, Jinny Ruben, is always there for me. I also have mentors from the Chamber workshop, and I look up to former Member of Parliament (MP) Gloria King, a true supporter of women. Women need to support women. When we share our stories, we help others find strength.”
Mrs. Sese now serves as a council member within VCCI, contributing to the development of the building and construction sector. But she believes more can be done, especially by the Government.
“There’s a need for stronger government involvement in supporting local businesses. We need to reduce dependence on foreign aid and build our own resilience.”
One of the most profound lessons Mrs. Sese has learned is the power of voice. Once nervous about public speaking, she now confidently represents women in business and the community.
“Women need to step out of their comfort zones. That’s when you grow. That’s how I met mentors who changed my life,” she said.
Her hope for women in Vanuatu is simple yet powerful: to believe in themselves, to support one another, and to embrace the opportunities in their homeland. “Our country is a beautiful and respectful place. Life has its ups and downs, but every challenge makes us stronger.”
From a young girl who left school early to a respected voice in Vanuatu’s private sector, Mrs. Sese’s story is proof that experience, passion, and community can build a powerful future, one step, one voice, and one woman at a time.
This feature story is part of a 13-week series presenting 26 Vanuatu women who serve on boards, profiled in Balance of Power’s book Nation Builders III.
The series is the outcome of a six-month partnership between Balance of Power and the Vanuatu Daily Post to recognise women leaders, build awareness of women’s leadership in Vanuatu, and encourage wider acknowledgement of their contributions across development and decision-making spaces.
SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST
