BY JOY OFASIA
MEET Margaret Soeasi, a dedicated cleaner who is reshaping the meaning of ‘women’s work’ in Honiara’s commercial cleaning industry.
Working with the local cleaning service ‘Shine Bright,’ Margaret’s commitment to excellence and her pride in her work make her an inspiring figure in a profession often overlooked by society.
Every weekday, Margaret begins her day at 6 a.m. with a sense of purpose. From sweeping floors to sanitizing bathrooms, she and her team ensure that offices and commercial spaces remain spotless and hygienic. In a job that requires hard labor, perseverance, and attention to detail, Margaret is not only cleaning spaces but also challenging the stigma surrounding her profession.
“Cleaning is seen as an unseen and unappreciated job, but in truth, many businesses rely on us to keep their spaces safe and functional,” Margaret explained in an exclusive interview with Solomon Women.
Hailing from the Northern region of Malaita Province, Margaret joined Shine Bright in April 2024, and quickly grew confident in her role. As a young woman in the cleaning industry, she initially struggled with fear and shyness, worried that others would mock her profession. However, over time, she realized the importance of work and how valuable it was to contribute to her community.
“At first, I used to be very shy and afraid of working in public, thinking people would laugh at me,” she recalled. “But over time, I understood that the job doesn’t matter as long as you’re working to earn money and support your family.”
Margaret’s sense of pride in her work and the skills she’s developed—both in the office and at home—have been a source of fulfillment. Her day is always made when clients thank her for her efforts, and when she can see the tangible results of her hard work.
“The best part is when clients thank me and notice the effort I’ve put in,” Margaret shared. “And seeing the final results of my work is truly rewarding.”
Her passion and work ethic serve as a reminder of the often unrecognized contributions of cleaners. Margaret’s message to young women in the Solomon Islands is clear: don’t underestimate the value of work, no matter the type.
“These jobs can help build your skills, support your family, and provide you with a sense of pride,” she said. “There’s no shame in working hard and being proud of what you do.”
Shine Bright Cleaning Services is proud to have Margaret as part of their team. Her dedication and positive attitude exemplify the professional standards that make her an essential part of the company’s success.
Through her work, Margaret Soeasi is not only cleaning spaces—she’s also cleaning up misconceptions about the value of women’s work in the Solomon Islands.
