What began as a passion for weaving, sewing, and crafting has transformed into a pathway to entrepreneurship for countless women throughout Fiji. Following their participation in this year’s National Women’s Expo, a select group of skilled female artisans has completed an Induction Program, welcoming them into the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC) and the Fiji Arts Council. This transition is poised to significantly enhance their business growth and strengthen their craft.
For these women, this achievement extends beyond mere business accomplishment; it embodies financial independence, self-confidence, and the creation of new opportunities for their families. Eseta Nadakuitavuki, the Permanent Secretary for Women, Children and Social Protection, addressed the graduates, praising them as businesswomen, artisans, and community leaders who are destined to inspire others.
Nadakuitavuki highlighted that collaboration between the government, the private sector, and various partners can create concrete opportunities for women to transform their creativity into sustainable income, resilience, and success. This initiative aligns with the Fiji Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan (2025–2030), aimed at enhancing women’s economic participation through various channels, including employment, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.
In a promising announcement, Nadakuitavuki revealed that the Ministry plans to establish a Women Artisans Emporium, envisioned as a permanent marketplace for women to showcase and sell their products throughout the year. This development builds on successful prior initiatives such as the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, which empowered nearly 600 women with essential skills to launch and enhance their businesses.
Recognizing women entrepreneurs as vital contributors to economic growth in Fiji, ongoing efforts to improve financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and access to resources are creating pathways for broader economic engagement. Events like the Women’s Expo have served as crucial platforms for women to display their crafts and networking skills, underlining their essential role in advancing community development.
Looking ahead, these programs and initiatives reflect a hopeful trajectory toward empowerment and economic independence for women in Fiji. The collective spirit and craftsmanship exhibited through these endeavors not only uplift individuals but also enrich communities, indicating a bright future where female entrepreneurs thrive and play a significant role in bolstering the nation’s economy.