Fiji Police Constable Susana Ligaqaqa has been honored with an award for her distinctive contributions to policing in the Pacific region. She received the “Excellence in Law Enforcement in the Pacific Region Award” at the Australasian Council of Women and Policing Awards in Melbourne. Constable Ligaqaqa, who operates from Nayavu Community Post, has been acknowledged for her influential work in community policing and the establishment of Crime Prevention Committees, which play a crucial role in empowering women and enhancing safety measures.
Joining the Fiji Police Force as a Special Constable in 2005, Ligaqaqa transitioned to a full-time officer by 2020. She dedicated her recent award to her colleagues, family, and community, while encouraging women and young girls to believe in themselves, carry their work with honor, and maintain faith in God.
This recognition comes alongside commendations for other female officers in the Fiji Police Force, highlighting a broader movement towards gender equality within policing. The achievements of Constable Ligaqaqa resonate with those of her colleague, PC Sadamma, who has asserted the potential of women in policing roles through her own 20 years of service and recognition in a similar male-dominated field.
These stories collectively celebrate the strength, commitment, and impact of women in roles traditionally dominated by men. They serve as powerful narratives inspiring future generations of women to pursue their ambitions in law enforcement or other challenging environments. Such recognitions highlight a hopeful trajectory towards inclusivity and gender equality, empowering women to break barriers and contribute significantly to society.