10/12/2024
From Kitchen Cleaner to Barista: Paul Sipia’s Journey of Growth and Dedication |
At 33 years old, Paul Sipia has become a pillar of support for his large family in Wabo, Gulf Province, while building a promising career at JPFSL.
Paul’s story is one of responsibility and resilience. As the firstborn in his family of ten siblings—six from his mother and four from his stepmother—Paul took on the role of taking care of his whole family, after his father’s passing. Married with two young children of his own, he juggles the needs of his extended family and his immediate household, ensuring they have food, medical care, and support during village ceremonies.
Recently, Paul found additional joy and pride in his work when two of his stepbrothers joined him at Herd Base. His younger brother began working as a laundry staff member in Housekeeping, while his other brother took up a role with JPHL, contributing to environmental waste management. “I’m happy that two of my brothers have a job and are now working with me,” Paul shared with a smile.
Paul began his career humbly in 2013 as a kitchen cleaner with Oilmin. Over the years, he transitioned through various roles in Oilmin during the Fortescue Future Industries Project (FFI), and later joining Herd Base under JPHL. On August 1, 2023, the Oilmin/JPHL joint venture brought him to JPFSL, where he has continued to excel.
With no formal education, Paul relied on workplace training to climb the professional ladder. Through continuous SOP training sessions and guidance from catering managers, Paul transformed his skill set. He moved from cleaning duties to mastering the use of combi ovens, grilling stoves, and even becoming a skilled barista. Preparing and serving espressos, along with assisting chefs in the kitchen, represents a major milestone in his journey.
Paul’s dedication and contributions have not gone unnoticed. He was awarded a safety award for promoting workplace safety by identifying potential risks. This recognition shows true to his commitment to excellence and the safety of his colleagues.
For Paul, employment is more than just a job—it’s a lifeline for his family. “Being the firstborn, it is quite a challenge to care for a large family,” he admits. But his work provides the means to make a difference. He ensures his family has food, arranges transportation to Kapuna Hospital for medical emergencies, and contributes to community events.
Paul’s aspirations are rooted in his love for his work. “I love my job very much and would not trade it for another profession,” he says with pride. His dream is to become a chef, a goal he is determined to achieve through hard work and dedication. Beyond his personal ambitions, Paul is committed to ensuring his children receive a good education and can pursue their own careers.
Reflecting on his time with JPFSL, Paul is filled with gratitude. “Working for JPFSL has brought a lot of changes in my career path,” he shares. Moving from a cleaning position to assisting in the kitchen has been a significant breakthrough for him. “I am thankful and blessed to have a job with JPFSL and caring staff who support me.”
Paul Sipia’s journey is a shining example of how perseverance, a willingness to learn, and a supportive work environment can transform lives. From his beginnings as a kitchen cleaner to becoming a skilled barista and aspiring chef, Paul embodies the power of hard work and hope for a brighter future.
We’ve all heard the old saying ‘if you put your mind to it, you can do anything’ and we believe Paul is the embodiment of this. With no formal education, brought up in a remote part of PNG, limited access to basic services and a large family (including his own) to support, Paul saw an opportunity, took it and ran with it.
Nothing can stop you Paul, we are with you, all the way.
