In a significant stride towards women’s empowerment, Sashi Kiran, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, has initiated the “She Fixes It” campaign through Habitat for Humanity Fiji. This campaign, unveiled on World Habitat Day, focuses on equipping women, particularly those living in urban and informal settlements, with practical skills in plumbing and home maintenance.
The initiative strives to enhance women’s economic independence while fostering safer, more sustainable homes and communities. In her remarks, Minister Kiran praised the campaign as a timely effort that not only emphasizes employment through technical skills but also nurtures leadership and resilience among women.
“Today, we are not just celebrating skills,” she stated, highlighting the importance of recognizing women’s roles as agents of change in their communities. The “She Fixes It” program aligns with the government’s commitment to promoting women’s economic inclusion and fortifying families and communities against challenges related to urban living and climate change.
Kiran expressed her gratitude toward Habitat for Humanity Fiji for their ongoing dedication and urged development partners and private sector representatives to support this vital investment in women’s growth. “When women thrive, families are strengthened. When families are strong, our communities prosper and our nation moves forward together,” she affirmed.
This initiative resonates with Minister Kiran’s previous advocacy for women’s involvement in disaster resilience efforts and their critical role in community preparedness, showcasing a broader movement toward inclusivity. Her earlier engagements have emphasized the necessity of integrating gender considerations in disaster planning and resource allocation, highlighting the vital input of women in shaping resilience strategies.
The “She Fixes It” campaign is not just an empowerment initiative but a significant step toward building a more resilient and economically vibrant society in Fiji—one where women hold a crucial role in transforming their communities and confronting challenges head-on. As this campaign unfolds, it provides a hopeful perspective on the potential for women to drive change and contribute meaningfully to their households and society at large.