Fijian Police Constable Susana Ligaqaqa has earned accolades for her outstanding contributions to law enforcement by receiving the “Excellence in Law Enforcement in the Pacific Region Award.” This esteemed recognition was bestowed upon her at the Australasian Council of Women and Policing Awards in Melbourne, acknowledging her significant efforts in community policing and her role in forming crime prevention committees that particularly empower women and enhance community safety.
Working at the Nayavu Community Post, Ligaqaqa has shown a commitment to improving community safety and empowering women by establishing networks and strengthening community links. Her journey with the Fiji Police Force began in 2005 as a Special Constable, later becoming a regular officer in 2020, marking a significant milestone in her dedicated career. The award ceremony also saw five other members of the Fiji Police Force being recognized as finalists, underscoring the contribution of Fijian officers to law enforcement.
In a message of gratitude and empowerment, Constable Ligaqaqa dedicated her award to her colleagues, family, and the broader community, encouraging women and young girls to have confidence in themselves, carry out their duties with dignity, and to trust in their faith. Her message resonates with shared experiences from other recognized officers like Police Constable Sadamma, highlighting the broader progress being made toward gender equality in law enforcement.
This achievement for PC Ligaqaqa is testament to the evolving role of women in law enforcement, reflecting a significant shift toward inclusivity and representation in traditionally male-dominated fields. The recognition serves not only as an accolade of personal achievement but also as an inspiring narrative for future generations of female officers and the broader community, illustrating that with determination, resilience, and support, women can excel and lead in diverse roles. This acknowledgment is a step forward in promoting gender equality within policing and encourages more women to pursue their ambitions confidently, fostering a hopeful future for law enforcement and community interactions.