Finau Raikanikoda is the only female frontliner working round the clock to make sure what comes off the boats at Nabouwalu Jetty, Bua is COVID-19 free.

The 28-year-old Health Inspector faces many challenges, but she believes doing things from a good heart produces good results.

“I love my job and thanks to my family’s support I am able to do what I love,” she said.

The mother of two children (six-year-old and two-year-old) leaves behind her family including husband, who works at Labasa Hospital as a cook. to serve the country during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Her job is to coordinate with the team of disciplinary forces, check and sanitise all  vehicles and items onboard vessels before it is transported to different parts of Vanua Levu.

Despite being a cardiac patient she carries her job well. Even if it means checking the boats early morning or midnight or three times in a day.

“I take my job seriously because coronavirus is real,” Ms Raikanikoda said.

“I always think about the people of Vanua Levu motivating myself to make sure everything is cleared properly before items get delivered.”

Originally from Navakaka Village in Cakaudrove. In her seven years as a Health Inspector she was employed in various health offices and the food unit of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services headquarters.

“I work under my superior based at Nabouwalu Hospital and he always advises me not to work under pressure or push limits,” she said.

“However, as a female, mother, wife and a daughter I want to set an example to others.

“So when this pandemic ends I can rest satisfied that I have done my job well.”

She said the spiritual support given by her mother, who is under lockdown in Suva, gives her strength to face each day.

“As a human being I miss my family, home and food,” she said as tears welled up in her eyes.

“My humble advice to people is to always take precautions, do the right thing so we can end the spread of COVID-19 together and I get to see my children.”

Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete posted photos stating this work, though unseen is important in allowing goods to pass through in the new normal.

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