Approximately 2,000 indigenous women from Fiji’s oldest surviving iTaukei organization, the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei (SSV), will convene in Suva today to commemorate its centenary and discuss significant revisions to its Constitution that will enable the organization to engage in business ventures.
The theme for the centennial celebration is “The Future and New Beginnings,” as highlighted by Adi Finau Tabakaucoro, Bau chief and national president of SSV. She emphasized that the proposed changes aim to revitalize the organization and enhance its effectiveness by adjusting membership criteria.
The organization plans to adopt a business model similar to that of Fijian Holdings Ltd (FHL), a company listed on the South Pacific Stock Exchange. This move is expected to help create wealth for both the organization and its members, which number around 200,000 across Fiji’s 14 provinces, 189 tikina, and 1,192 villages.
Adi Finau remarked on the need for a transformation, describing the organization as “a tired old woman,” and indicated that restructuring would be essential to modernize its image and promote leadership change. She acknowledged the strength of SSV is rooted in its dedicated members who consistently invest their time to keep the organization relevant.
Established in the early 1900s, SSV initially helped iTaukei women showcase traditional crafts and develop skills in home management and child care. Over the years, it has evolved into a supportive network for iTaukei women, collaborating with various groups and NGOs to empower them and uplift rural communities.
Membership to SSV is automatic for iTaukei women upon turning 16, and active participation requires engagement within local provinces and fundraising efforts for the organization. The SSV has been instrumental in nurturing iTaukei women leaders, some of whom have advanced to national leadership roles.
As the oldest and only iTaukei institution representing a significant portion of Fiji’s population, the current educational and economic empowerment of its members signifies that now is an opportune time for transformation. Founded in 1924 by Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Derrick, the movement gained considerable traction by 1944, leading to a traditional stewardship handover to Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna and his wife, Lady Maraia Sukuna, who became its first national president.
The centennial celebrations will feature participation from distinguished guests, including the British High Commissioner to Fiji, Dr. Brian Jones, as well as members of the government, diplomatic community, and civil society groups.
This historic gathering stands as a testament to the resilience and evolution of iTaukei women, signaling a hopeful future as they step into new opportunities for empowerment and development. The journey of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei reflects the strength found in unity and the pursuit of meaningful change within their communities.
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