Q&A with CNMI’s Woman of Excellence in Emergency Response

NIPIGHIYONG T. LANIYO

Firefighter, Department of Fire & Emergency Medical Services

Q: What inspired you to actively involved in your community, and what drives you to continue making a difference?

A: Not only is my father still currently in the fire service, [but] I also come from a family of women who were educators. Growing up I had the opportunity to witness them teach and foster the growth of their students, and serve and aid the community, while enjoying it too. What drives me to continue making a difference? To make sure the next generation of leaders, civil service employees, and community can live a prosperous life.

Q: Can you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement?

A: The fire department is a male-dominated workforce. I feel that, alongside the other female firefighters, past and present, excelling in this choice of career paves the way for the future generation of female firefighters to trailblaze and become successful.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges women face today, and how can individuals and communities work together to overcome them?

A: One of the biggest challenges women face today is their ability to work being underestimated. I think coming together as a community and consistently advocating for women’s rights and equality starting with the younger generations will definitely have a positive effect. We also have to keep in mind the different types of cultures that are practiced globally. In some cultures, men sit at the top of the hierarchy, while women are condemned to the bottom. I think that the countries where local cultures are still heavily practiced will have a less effective outcome in the acceptance of women’s equality and rights.

Q: Will you share a time when you had to challenge societal norms and stereotypes?

A: I have always been the bigger girl. One of the biggest challenges I face as a woman is being underestimated because of my size. I was constantly put down since I was a child by peers and some extended family members. My immediate family, though, never failed to remind me about how beautiful I was. They forged in my brain that no matter my size I could accomplish anything I set my mind and heart to.

Society depicts a firefighter as an individual who is fit and slim. Here I am though, despite being a big woman I continue to proudly serve my community and the people of the CNMI to the best of my abilities.

Q: How can individuals, businesses, and governments create an environment where women can thrive?

A: By actually giving them an opportunity to take on whatever obstacles are presented. Implementing a prerequisite that is just and fair for all genders. I strongly believe that advocating for rights and inclusivity with the target audience being our younger generation will have a positive outcome for the generation of future leaders to come.

Q: Can you share how mentorship played a role in your journey?

A: Working in a male-dominated workplace in the last eight years has definitely taught me a lot. The female firefighters are the minority in the fire department. Yes, my male peers in my department shaped and molded me into who I am today regarding work, but it was the advice from the few female firefighters that stuck with me just a bit more.

Q: How do you envision the future of gender equality and women’s empowerment?

A: It may not be the fastest race we’ll ever win, but when we reach that finish line all the hard work put into it will definitely be worth it. I come from a line of women who each have paved the way for me to become the best version of myself. I am grateful for the women who raised me and molded me into the woman I am today, flaws and all. The role that I see myself playing in advancing these goals is to continuously advocate for self-love and acceptance of all women. To make sure that any woman around my presence knows that they are accepted, valued, and worthy of anything they set their mind to.

Q: What advice would you like to share with women and girls in the Marianas?

A: No matter how difficult the journey may be, know that you are more than capable of accomplishing anything that you set your mind to. Remember to surround yourself with people who nourish your mind, body, and most especially your soul. When you are occupied with so many tasks and you feel overwhelmed, don’t forget to take a step back and appreciate how far you have come. (Nhorleen Bitco-Lilles)