Politics was never part of Fathimath Shathna’s plan.

After finishing school, she chose teaching as her profession, pursued higher studies in the field and became a teacher. At the time, she hardly followed politics and never imagined herself becoming a politician.

That changed when her cousin, now a Member of Parliament, asked her to represent him at various forums during his campaign.

Those experiences sparked something new — an interest in politics and public service.

Later, Shathna decided to contest for the Guraidhoo Island Council. With strong support from the community, she was elected and went on to become the first female Vice President of the Guraidhoo Island Council.

She entered politics knowing it would not be easy. She knew criticism would come and that she could become a target. But she believes educated and capable people must also step into politics and contribute to their communities.

A mother of two, Shathna says her family remains everything to her.

Today, her focus is simple: serve the people, develop Guraidhoo and address the challenges facing the island.

And the teacher who once had little interest in politics now says she is certain — she wants to continue her journey in politics.