More than 100 girls from the Central Division gathered in Suva on Saturday to celebrate International Day of the Girl Child through a unique Peace-building Sports Day organized by the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM). The event took place under the theme “She Plays, She Leads, She Builds Peace,” emphasizing the empowerment of girls through sports while challenging gender stereotypes.
FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh highlighted that the day was not just about fun but also about teaching vital life skills. “Sports teaches us teamwork, respect, resilience, and trust—the same values needed to build peace in our families, schools, and communities,” she stated. Singh stressed the importance of girls taking the lead and inspiring others to push against inequality and build solidarity.
Inspiration came from special guest Rusila Nagasau, captain of the Fijiana 7s team, who encouraged the young girls to aspire to their dreams, saying, “You can be the best in the world only if you believe in yourself.” The event also featured success stories from local athletes such as Fiji Deaf Women’s Rugby player Lusi Rokonamarama, who shared her journey and triumph after winning gold in Australia.
The activities included a rugby clinic conducted by the Fiji Rugby Union, mindfulness exercises led by trainer Asinate Korocowiri, fire safety awareness provided by officers from the National Fire Authority, as well as dances, chants, and a poignant moment of silence in observance of Pinktober, honoring girls lost to cancer.
Supported by the Australian Government alongside the International Women’s Development Agency, this event not only promoted sports and teamwork but also served as a vital platform for advocating gender equality and peace-building among young girls. The FWRM aims to continue fostering such initiatives, empowering young women to become future leaders and active changemakers in their communities.
These efforts resonate with broader movements in Fiji aimed at creating safe, inclusive environments through sports, echoing sentiments expressed at similar events focused on building respect and solidarity among genders, encouraging a collaborative and vibrant society.