Take five: Ruta Babo Nemta, Deputy Speaker of the House of Parliament, Kiribati
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Ruta Babo‑Nemta is a youth leader and parliamentarian in Kiribati. In 2024, she made history as the first female representative for Maiana Island and the youngest member of the Maneaba ni Maungatabu, later elected by her peers as Deputy Speaker. Her path to leadership was shaped by her background in public service and her participation in Kiribati’s inaugural Women’s Practice Parliament in 2023. Ruta champions intergenerational mentorship, cultural preservation, and inclusive governance. As a youth leader, she seeks to empower marginalized groups and build political ecosystems where women can thrive, bringing fresh perspectives and purpose to Kiribati’s democratic institutions.
What inspired you to run for office?
My father was my greatest role model. He served as a Member of Parliament for Maiana from 2016 to 2020, and I often helped him with his constituency work while he was away. Going through his lists of community requests made me realize how much he gave of himself in service to others. When he lost his seat, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to continue that service. Eight years later, I found myself sitting in Parliament, following in his footsteps as a service to our people.
What challenges did you face on your journey to Parliament?
One of the biggest hurdles was financial. In our islands, candidates are often expected to have “big pockets.” I didn’t. I was a civil servant, raising a young family, and I refused to use money meant for my children’s education or household needs. So we organized fundraising, and my extended family — siblings, cousins, uncles, and aunties — all came together. My victory wasn’t mine alone; it was a collective effort.
How does it feel to be one of only a few women in Parliament?
Out of 45 Members of Parliament in Kiribati, only five are women. It can be intimidating, especially as a young Deputy Speaker. But I have received great support from senior Members of Parliament, both men and women, who remind me that I was elected by my people and belong in that seat. In Kiribati, respect is deeply rooted in our culture, and I’ve found that it can create space for women to lead with confidence and humility. Leadership is easier when you have the support of senior Members.
What advice do you have for young women who want to lead?
Just go for it. Don’t wait for anyone else to tell you it’s your time — say yes to yourself. Many young women hesitate because they doubt their abilities or fear criticism. But the truth is, you’ll never know your strength until you try. Whether you’re in politics, education, or community work, take the first step. Sometimes you have to act with confidence before you truly feel it, and with time, you grow into the leader you were meant to be.
How do you balance leadership with motherhood and family life?
I’m a mother of four young children — ages seven, six, five, and four — and it’s not easy. I’ve had to sacrifice and miss important milestones. But I remind myself that my work is also for them. I see leadership as a service to others, and I hope that’s how my children see me: as someone who helps others. I hope they grow up understanding that leadership and family can go hand in hand, and that service is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.
The convening took place under the WYDE | Women’s Leadership initiative, funded by the European Union, which aims to advance women’s full and effective political participation and decision‑making at all levels, especially for those most often left furthest behind.
Note: These publications aim to stimulate constructive debate on key issues of interest for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. The views expressed by the individuals interviewed do not necessarily reflect the official position of UN Women, the United Nations system, or the European Union.