The Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF) has officially initiated its 2024 grant cycle, allocating resources to 17 new grantee partners dedicated to promoting gender equality and driving significant social change across Fiji. The launch reaffirms WFF’s commitment to supporting a variety of women’s groups, gender-diverse organizations, and feminist movements based on intersectional feminist principles.
This year’s funding emphasizes five pivotal areas: Women’s Economic Empowerment, Ending Violence Against Women, Women’s Leadership and Decision-Making, Climate Justice and Humanitarian Action, and Strengthening Women’s Coalitions for Change. According to Patricia Naisara, Co-Chair of the Governance Board, the majority of the grantee partners focus their efforts on rural, semi-rural, and remote communities, highlighting the importance of their work in enhancing community resilience and fostering sustainable change where it is most needed.
Naisara emphasized the fund’s vision of creating inclusive and long-term funding models that respond to the realities of feminist social change, emphasizing the need for collaborative partnerships and redistribution of resources. She expressed pride in supporting local leaders who are tirelessly working to enact change in their communities, recognizing their crucial role in this movement.
Representatives from the Australian and New Zealand High Commissions also acknowledged the efforts of the grantee partners. Australia’s senior program manager pointed out that these initiatives help address emerging issues affecting families in Fiji, with gender equality as a core aspect of Australia’s foreign policy. Similarly, New Zealand’s First Secretary highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering resilience and supporting sustainable development, especially in rural and maritime regions.
The 2024 funding cycle has successfully awarded grants to various organizations, including Cicia Women’s Network, Levukana Women’s Association, and the Fiji Cancer Society, among others. These groups are crucial in advocating for women’s rights and addressing the biases and barriers that hinder opportunities for women and girls in various sectors.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in fostering gender equality and empowering communities in Fiji. It’s a hopeful reminder that collective efforts from local organizations, supported by international partners, can drive transformative changes in society. By investing in women’s leadership and grassroots movements, the Women’s Fund Fiji is paving the way for a more equitable future.
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