Nauru's Female Leaders: Lighting the Way for the Pacific

Across the Pacific, Nauru is quietly setting a powerful example when it comes to women in leadership and entrepreneurship. While many Pacific nations continue striving for gender balance, Nauru is making steady progress, with strong community networks and growing access to opportunities supporting women’s advancement.

As of 2021, women made up the majority of the Government Civil Service, outnumbering men 866 to 630. Their leadership stretches far beyond the island, with women holding key positions in overseas missions, consulates, and ambassador roles -- underscoring Nauru’s role at the forefront of a powerful shift towards inclusive leadership in the Pacific.

Breaking barriers in parliament

This progress has not come without trailblazers. Ruby Thoma made history in 1986 as the country’s first female member of parliament, breaking barriers in a space traditionally dominated by men. Despite facing resistance – even from within her own community, she paved the way for future generations. 

Charmaine Scotty continues that legacy today, holding a sweeping ministerial portfolio covering land, youth, culture, tourism, women's affairs and disability services. Similarly, Isabella Dageago has played a critical role in national leadership, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she led health responses and today is the Deputy Speaker of parliament.

Entrepreneurs with vision

Nauru’s leadership extends beyond politics. In business and entrepreneurship, women are creating opportunities not only for themselves but for their communities. Barina Waqa Duburiya made history as Nauru's first female lawyer and channelled that same pioneering ambition into founding a women’s clothing brand Boedisha's Boutique. 

Eirububwin Tréannah Dabwido is actively investing in the next generation of women entrepreneurs by leading programs that give Nauruan women practical skills in saving and starting small businesses. Through hands-on workshops and mentoring, she helps women build the knowledge needed to pursue entrepreneurial ideas. 

Women founded creative businesses in Nauru are also flourishing. Tayla Bond built Isle of Bond – ‘a clothing brand that celebrates individuality, inclusivity, and the island spirit’ and also authored Nauru's first children's book, keeping Nauruan language for the next generation. 

Further, Agnes Mata Denuga has transformed local materials into a meaningful jewellery business, founding Panagiona Creations in 2009 - a jewellery brand crafted from Nauru's own phosphate. Selected from over 200 applicants for international business training in Australia, Agnes is now focused on taking her brand global. “I hope to inspire other Nauruan women to become entrepreneurs,” she says.

With the Women Empowerment Nauru Association advocating strongly for gender equality, the momentum is only building. Nauru's women aren't waiting for a seat at the table – they're running it.