Being in the shipping industry for more than 32 years has been an enjoyable learning experience for 60-year-old shipping veteran Barbara Wong Nasara.

The Votualalai, Nadroga native who is currently the Sales and Marketing Manager for Shipping Services (Fiji) limited attributed her success in the industry to her humble beginnings.

“We had a strict upbringing and we were disciplined especially by my Chinese dad,” Ms Nasara said.

“There was no hanky panky, chores were expected to be completed properly and in a timely manner without shortcuts,” she said.

Ms Nasara attended St Joan of Arc in Sigatoka and Stella Maris Primary School prior to receiving her secondary education at St Joseph’s Secondary and Suva Grammar School.

She then attended Fiji Institute of Technology for her tertiary qualification.

Her career in the industry began back in 1986 carrying out Administration works for the then Burns Philip (BP) Shipping where she grew her inspiration of remaining in the shipping fraternity.

“Mr. Francis Hong Tiy our Chairman and Founder of Shipping Services (Fiji) Ltd became my inspiration as I was his secretary at BP Shipping in 1986,”

“Having worked for an insurance company, I had no idea nor knowledge of the shipping industry, Mr Hong-Tiy was my mentor and for that I am ever grateful, plus the fact that shipping is never boring,”

The Mother of three children said that she continues to learn a great deal while in the industry and has learnt to balance her work and family life.

“Though, very challenging and a lot of hard work, I’ve learnt a lot and it’s been enjoyable along the way,”

“I try to have a good balance between having a career and looking after my young family.” She added.

Ms Nasara coordinates the sales team and gathers market information, potential new businesses, various shipping services, freight rates at Shipping Services.

“I also assist with the origination of new and existing sales opportunities.  Outcomes are communicated to our CEO, Managing Director and our Principal, Maersk.”

She also challenged women to take to take on the challenges they are faced with everyday and do better in their places of employment.

“Women are natural multi taskers, we pay more attention to detail, we pride ourselves in what we produce and we’re nurturing which means our customer service skills are second nature,”

“I always have a continuous development plan and equally maintaining work-life-balance.

“Challenge yourself daily, go to work with a “can do” attitude.

“Loyalty and honesty pay off with your customers and employers, value your staff, know your products and work hard.”

“Overall it has been an enjoyable 26 years with the Shipping Services family.  We have a great team with a wealth of experience.  A team who is always ready to provide the best possible service.”