The 1990 Woman of the Year Award was held at ANZ House in Suva, where Lady Merewalesi Tavaiqia was honored with a framed plaque and $1500 prize money by Lady Bale Ganilau. According to a report from The Fiji Times dated December 14, 1990, Lady Merewalesi, selected from 32 nominees across various fields including business, education, and health, was proud to represent all the women of Fiji.
At the event, attended by around 150 guests, ANZ executive Bruce Avent emphasized that the award should not be seen as a competition but rather as a celebration of women’s contributions to Fijian society. He praised women’s leadership at community and national levels, recognizing their essential roles in various sectors.
In her acceptance speech, Lady Merewalesi expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I know there are many deserving women out there tonight, but I would like to say this, that I am receiving this award on behalf of all the women of Fiji, wherever they are.” The esteemed award not only marked a personal achievement for Lady Merewalesi, who was the wife of Tui Vuda, Ratu Sir Josaia Tavaiqia, but also shone a light on the enduring impact of women in Fiji.
The event included the participation of the Minister for Women and Culture, Adi Finau Tobakaucoro, and featured Miss Hibiscus 1988, Lenora Qereqeretabua, as the Master of Ceremonies. Such gatherings highlight the collective efforts and significant strides made by women in Fiji, fostering a spirit of unity and empowerment.
This event resonates with contemporary celebrations of women’s achievements, like the recent SPBD Foundation awards in Suva, which recognized approximately 2,500 women microbusiness owners for their contributions to the economy. Both events underline the growing acknowledgment of women’s roles in shaping their communities and the economy in Fiji, demonstrating a commitment to empowering future generations.
The legacy of these awards continues to inspire current and upcoming generations of women, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and make impactful changes in their communities.
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