Fanolua Umutaua Leapai of Malie and Siumu earned honors when she graduated as a S.F.E.S.A. officer among 33 new firefighters last Friday.

The 23-year-old Fanolua has brushed away stereotypes being spread around that firefighter is a job that's specifically for men, when she became the female top student in the male-dominant career. 

She told Samoa Observer on Monday how proud she was of herself when she managed to reach the end of the ten-week-trainings and be able to overcome hurdles in order to graduate. 

"I'm just a girl, but I got a big heart. Ten weeks of training has been tough, but never did I think of quitting because I am the person who loves challenges and I had to challenge myself, that I can do what men can do", Fanolua said. 

The graduating student explained that top-recruit status meant she earned the highest overall combined score in tests that include a ladder, hose, and academic assessments and that it guarantees her ability to carry out whatever role she would be tasked to fulfill. 

"Looking back to my journey and how I met the requirements to become the top student, I must say that I am now ready to work," she said.

"Females are just as capable as males with this job. It is always my passion to help the country with all the strength I got and with this achievement, I am close to bringing the whole picture into view."

 The young woman has proven herself and according to her, it is a demonstration of women's empowerment. 

"I just want to relay a powerful message to all women who are doubting their abilities, please step out of your comfort zone, face your fear, and become an inspiration.

"I have always wanted to promote gender equality. The only difference between men and women is their physical appearance, but God has given each and every human being the same courage to cope with maintains in life so that they will accomplish anything". 

During the interview, Ms. Leapai mentioned she understands that the calling is risky, but she will be able to do anything through Christ. 

"I know that my life will be at risk when actually performing my responsibility, but that does not worry me as long as I believe that the Lord is with me and that my work will save a life."

The firefighter also revealed that there were times when she came across "people's negative opinions and public complaints about my performance" but took strength from the fact that she had been mentally preparing herself for the job since she was young. 

"I have been disciplined on how to reflect aspects of love, respect, kindness, and patience through what I do, and I know how to cope with the challenges that would be thrown my way," she said. 

Ms. Leapai described her trainers and colleagues as her "second family", saying: "They’re my brothers and sisters who brought out the best of me through encouragement and hard training."

The new firefighter went to St Mary's and Avele college and graduated from the National University of Samoa (N.U.S.) with a Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality in 2020. 

However, she had been dreaming of becoming a firefighter and was serious about it as part of her service for Samoa. She acknowledged the support of her family and friends as well as God's guidance.