From Rarity to Building Communities in Fiji
Dr Taranaivini . K. Savou
In healthcare, dentistry has often been seen as a male-dominated field. However, in recent years, women have risen to prominence, reshaping the profession and making significant contributions to the well-being of communities. In Fiji, female dentists are breaking barriers and leading the charge to improve oral healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Dr. Venina Wati: Leading the Way in Nadi
A shining example of this movement is Dr. Venina Wati, the Principal Dental Officer of the Nadi Subdivision in the western part of Fiji. Originally from the province of Ra, Dr. Wati has significantly expanded the range of services available at Nadi Dental to include dental prosthetics, enhancing the ability to address the needs of the population. Her leadership has brought modern dental solutions to the community, ensuring that both preventive and restorative care are accessible to everyone.
Her motivation is deeply rooted in her passion to serve where she is called, a driving force that has allowed her to impact the lives of countless individuals. Alongside her professional duties, Dr. Wati is also a mother to four children, juggling the demands of her career and family life. Her husband, a health inspector, joins her in managing the challenge of balancing home responsibilities while leaving their young children to undertake outreach programs in remote communities. Together, they exemplify the spirit of service and dedication to healthcare.
Building Communities with Compassion and Care
Female dentists in Fiji, like Dr. Wati, are at the heart of community engagement. Beyond clinical duties, they are involved in community outreach, often organizing free dental clinics and educational programs. This compassionate approach to healthcare has a ripple effect, improving overall health and wellness while fostering trust and cooperation between healthcare providers and the public.
Dr. Wati’s commitment to the people of Nadi goes beyond providing excellent dental services; she’s a role model for aspiring young women who dream of pursuing careers in healthcare. Her ability to lead by example and elevate dental services is a testament to the power of perseverance, knowledge, and a community-first mindset.
Overcoming Challenges to Bring Change
Despite the success stories, female dentists in Fiji face unique challenges. Limited resources, cultural stigmas, and the vast geography of the country make it difficult to provide equal access to care for everyone. However, under leaders like Dr. Wati, these obstacles are met with creative solutions, such as increasing outreach and integrating advanced services like dental prosthetics in regional centers.
Dr. Wati’s dedication reflects the broader effort of women in dentistry who are tirelessly working to enhance public oral health, bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. Their work is also supported by collaborations with other healthcare providers, NGOs, and government initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes across the islands.
The Future of Women in Dentistry
Her husband and twins
As more women like Dr. Venina Wati take leadership roles in dentistry, the future of the profession in Fiji looks brighter than ever. These women are not just practitioners but advocates for policy changes, pushing for more comprehensive care and better access to dental services for all. Their commitment to education and training ensures that the next generation of Fijian dentists will be equipped to continue the legacy of building healthier, stronger communities.
With leaders like Dr. Wati, the dental profession in Fiji is evolving, not only in terms of clinical care but also in how it interacts with the community. These wonder women of dentistry are blazing trails and ensuring that oral healthcare in Fiji is inclusive, innovative, and accessible for all.
Fiji Dental Association 