Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has officially launched the Women in Construction and Trade Fiji (WICAT) website, signaling a significant advancement in promoting women’s roles in typically male-dominated industries. This milestone event occurred during Women in Construction Week 2026 and brought together industry leaders, development partners, and the dedicated women driving progress in Fiji’s construction and trade sectors.
Minister Kiran praised WICAT for its journey since its establishment in 2021, recognizing it as a national movement that empowers women in various trades. She acknowledged the challenges that women in these fields face while highlighting their resilience and the positive impact their contributions have on the nation. “When women participate in construction and infrastructure, the entire nation benefits,” Kiran emphasized, underlining the importance of women’s involvement in these vital sectors.
Julianne Verma, the founder of WICAT, described the website launch as a crucial milestone that embodies the determination and strength of women within the industry. She called attention to the organization’s commitment to empowerment and collaboration, urging partnerships with male allies to promote growth and inclusion in the sector. “Being a woman in the construction and trade industry is not easy. Yet across this sector, one theme unites us: we are strong,” Verma stated, reflecting the collective struggle and triumph of women in the field.
Cecilia Sumasafu, a 22-year-old member of WICAT, shared her personal journey that transitioned her from feeling isolated as a female architecture student to securing an internship at ATELIER 153. She credited WICAT’s support for her progress and encouraged fellow women to pursue their ambitions within the industry.
The newly launched website aims to increase the visibility of women in construction and trade, facilitating networking and mentorship opportunities, and providing a platform for both national and regional recognition. As Women in Construction Week 2026 unfolds, WICAT illustrates the growing impact of women who are actively shaping the future of Fiji’s construction and trade sectors, offering a hopeful perspective on the role of women in transforming industries for the better.