The Samoa Ports Authority honored one of its employees, Ioana Paulo Avefua in recognition of her great achievement as the first female Marine captain in Samoa on Thursday 31st August 2023.
The 35-year-old mother of two has completed assessment to become a marine captain.
She holds a Certificate IV in Master Class 5 from the National University Samoa’s School of Maritime.
A statement issued by the government said “A special ceremony was held specially for this prestigious achievement, and it was presented in front of the Board of Directors, Management, Staff and Ioana’s family members.”
In his keynote address, the Chairman of the SPA Board of Directors, Afioga Tuiloma Neroni Slade, congratulated Mrs. Avefua on behalf of SPA, for her continuous determination and perseverance, that has reached this great milestone.
“This is a very monumental day marking a story of determination and perseverance. Empowering women and proud historical development for SPA, Capt. Ioana has concentrated on the core values, pushing herself, breaking barriers, prospering equality and embracing the diversity amongst all of us” says Chairman Tuiloma Slade.
“Capt. Ioana, Malo, faafetai ta’imua, ia manuia lou alo atu i lenei galuega ma tofiga taua. Alofagia e le Atua lau galuega ma lou tomai”. Tuiloma concludes.
This remarkable award not only serves as a testament of determination and commitment but also has set a valuable empowerment for women.
“I stand here not as a Captain but as a symbol of unlimitedness potential that exist in each and every one of us, breaking barriers, status quo and stereotype and proving that gender is not a limitation.
The sky is not the limit, it is only the beginning of our journey “says Ioana Paulo Avefua.
She has shown great determination in her work, and continues to pave her career as the first female marine captain in Samoa who will be piloting our tugboats. Her journey was not easy as this is a male dominant industry and surrounded by a competitive level as the only female in SPA’s Maritime Division.
Ioana Paulo Avefua shared that she is committed to upholding the values of Integrity, excellence and compassion that define our nation. She is honored for the trust bestowed on her and the love and support shown by not only her Maritime family but the Authority as well. She is excited and assured that she will lead with dedication in serving Samoa and its people.
Mrs. Avefua started her career with SPA on 1st July 2013, when she was appointed as an Able Bodied Seaman. She became a marine captain trainee in 2018, and in July, promoted to the position of Pilot Trainee.