In the picturesque provinces of East New Britain, Milne Bay, and Western in Papua New Guinea, a determined young woman named Topaz initially set her sights on the skies. Dreaming of soaring through the clouds, her heart was set on a career in aviation. However, life had a different plan for her, and Topaz gracefully merged her passions to chart a new course.
"The ocean is my true passion, and I yearn to delve into the art of navigation," she shares with a gleam of determination in her eyes. While a maritime career was her second choice, Topaz embraces her cadetship with gratitude, recognizing it as a unique opportunity to sculpt her destiny.
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| Sailing Beyond Limits: Topaz Gula of PNG's Trailblazing Journey to Maritime Triumph [Photo credit : Australian Awards PNG] |
"I aspire to emerge from this experience as a mentally resilient individual. I aim to cultivate sharp decision-making skills, profound critical thinking, and a high level of professionalism. This cadetship is my gateway to achieving those goals, and I can already sense myself growing stronger with every passing day," Topaz declares with confidence.
For her, the scholarship that has paved the way for this transformative journey is nothing short of a beacon of hope. "This scholarship means the world to me. Thanks to the Australia Awards, I am immersed in a learning environment that adheres to your exceptional standards. The orientations and workshops have been enlightening, offering diverse perspectives and expanding my horizons," she reflects.
The financial coverage of her tuition has alleviated the burdens of accommodation and daily essentials, allowing Topaz to focus solely on her educational pursuits. "This scholarship empowers me to concentrate on what truly matters. I can immerse myself in learning without the worry of financial constraints, making this a conducive environment for my maritime education. Without this opportunity, I wouldn't be standing here, and for that, I am deeply grateful," she acknowledges.
Beyond personal triumphs, Topaz recognizes the significance of scholarships for women in her community. In a field where equal opportunities are often overlooked, she believes that women, like herself, can shatter preconceived notions. Initially hesitant due to societal skepticism about women excelling in maritime roles, Topaz dispelled her own doubts through research and witnessing other women flourish in the industry.
She envisions that women undertaking cadetships will serve as beacons of inspiration, not only raising awareness but also showcasing the incredible feats that women in Papua New Guinea can achieve. Topaz aims to debunk stereotypes and hopes that her journey will alleviate the concerns of parents who may harbor reservations about their daughters venturing into traditionally male-dominated professions.
Drawing inspiration from her resilient mother, who embodies strength and upholds incredibly high standards, Topaz is determined to follow in her footsteps. "I aspire to adopt her principles and standards in everything I do," she affirms with admiration.
With her eyes set on the horizon, Topaz envisions ascending through the ranks, eventually reaching the esteemed position of chief officer. Her journey is not just a personal quest; it's a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and breaking barriers. Through her story, Topaz aspires to empower and inspire countless girls and women to navigate uncharted waters, realizing their full potential in the maritime industry and beyond.
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