In this week’s Women’s Profile, the Vanuatu Daily Post is proud to feature Ms Rosina Nanpen Namlat Melkum, a dedicated Site Inspector for the Public Works Department (PWD) in Santo. At 28, Ms Melkum has already carved a unique path for herself in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Born and raised on Erromango Island in TAFEA Province, Melkum comes from a large family with six sisters and no brothers. She is the third daughter in her family, and her parents still live on Erromango.
Melkum’s journey into civil engineering began when she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Fiji National University (FNU) in 2020. Her career kicked off in 2021 when she worked on a contract as an Inspector of Works with the R4D2 Australian Project under the PWD. By 2022, she had secured a permanent role as a Site Inspector with the PWD in Sanma, where she continues to contribute her skills and passion to date.
When asked why she chose a career in a male-dominated field, Rosina shared her inspiring story, “In a home full of women, I wanted to challenge societal expectations and do something different. I initially dreamt of becoming a captain, but during a career day at Onesua Presbyterian College (OPC), my interests shifted.
“I found myself surrounded by boys interested in aircraft engineering and realized I wanted to pursue a career in engineering. My uncle, Simon William Nompavos Melkum, a professional aircraft engineer, was a significant role model for me.
“His influence and my dedication to my studies led me to set my sights on becoming a civil engineer. With guidance and a scholarship from the Vanuatu Government, I completed my four-year degree in Fiji.”
Ms Melkum loves her job, particularly the opportunity to learn and experience new ideas, and to be surrounded by knowledgeable and experienced colleagues. She believes these interactions help her grow and build on her knowledge, even when she encounters failures.
However, working as a female engineer in a male-dominated environment comes with its challenges.
Melkum often struggles to have her opinions taken seriously, especially when dealing with contractors who may not respect women.
Giving instructions to male colleagues can be difficult when they question her expertise. She also faces being side-lined in decision-making processes, where her contributions are sometimes undervalued.
But Melkum has found ways to overcome these obstacles. She emphasizes the importance of good communication:
“Good communication has helped me build better working relationships with my male colleagues and contractors. Over time, by expressing my thoughts and feelings to my superiors, the challenges have eased. I also seek advice from other women who have faced similar situations, which has been valuable in finding my way through.”
Reflecting on her journey, Melkum offers advice to her younger self and to young women facing similar crossroads:
“I would tell my younger self to ignore societal negativity and not be afraid to seek advice from elders. Your future and happiness are in your own hands, and you must take responsibility for your choices.”
To young girls and women grappling with their ambitions and societal expectations, Melkum says, “If your heart desires something that your culture doesn’t approve of, think big. In today’s world, your happiness and satisfaction are defined by your choices. Ignore the barriers and keep seeking wisdom to fulfil the prosperous plans you are meant for.”
Ms Melkum’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams against all odds.
SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST
