Aruka Fiji is expanding its impactful program aimed at empowering marginalized and at-risk women to the Northern Division. This initiative, supported by Women’s Fund Fiji, has already made strides since its inception in June by training over 50 women across three different regions. The Director and Founder of Aruka Fiji, Inoke Drauna, emphasized that the program is focused on fostering entrepreneurship, supporting income-generating projects, and providing psychosocial support, which includes counselling and rehabilitation for women recovering from addiction.
The program kicked off with the graduation of 12 young women marginalized by their community. The success continued as the program moved to the Western Division, where 22 women completed a comprehensive 12-module course. Currently, the initiative is running sessions for residents at Bulileka Hart in Labasa, with plans to reach even more women across Fiji.
Ateca Maiqalau, a participant, expressed her gratitude, highlighting how the initiative has opened doors for single mothers and widows to achieve greater independence and self-reliance. She remarked how the training challenged her previous notions that one had to work in an office to earn an income, realizing instead that substantial earnings can be achieved from home through entrepreneurship.
Aruka Fiji’s comprehensive approach also includes profiling various communities to ensure the programs address the specific needs of vulnerable women and girls. The overarching goal is to empower women to become self-sufficient while at the same time contributing to building resilient communities.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts within Fiji, as other programs similarly focus on financial literacy and entrepreneurship to uplift women in communities. Such programs, often supported by government bodies and international agencies, are designed to equip women with critical skills in business management and financial literacy, thereby enhancing their quality of life and increasing their economic contributions. The empowerment of women through these initiatives not only fosters personal growth but also catalyzes economic resilience and self-reliance within entire communities.
The long-term vision of Aruka Fiji and similar efforts is one of optimism and hopeful progress, aiming to build more equitable societies by investing in women’s potential. By empowering women, these programs create a ripple effect that touches their families and communities, driving sustainable development and positive change across Fiji.