During the recent launch of the Women Invigorating the Nation (WIN) Convention 2026, Eldon Eastgate, general manager of Essity in the Pacific Islands, underscored the critical role of women’s visibility and confidence in shaping the future of Fiji. The convention aims to boost female participation in nation-building and elevate women’s presence across various sectors.
Eastgate highlighted the need for women to embrace leadership roles, stating, “We invest in women and we invest in Fiji, and to me, that’s critical.” He emphasized the necessity of enhancing the skills and capacities of women entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, noting that their voices are essential to the country’s development.
Organized by the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC) under the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), the WIN Convention is designed as an annual platform for women while also encouraging male participation. Eastgate, who serves as the president of FCEF, stressed that advancing gender equity requires collaboration from all sectors of society.
The convention seeks to empower women by boosting their confidence and encouraging them to share their talents and perspectives within the wider community. Scheduled for March 27 and 28 at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, the event promises to foster an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.
The excitement surrounding the WIN Convention 2026 marks a positive development in the pursuit of greater gender equity within Fiji’s workforce, highlighting the immense potential of women and the shared responsibility to create a more inclusive society. This initiative reflects a hopeful vision for the future where women play an integral role in national development.