Women in the Pacific face significant challenges from climate change, yet they are pivotal in driving community-based solutions. Salote Tadokai, Fiji’s first female assistant trainer for the Certificate III in Sustainable Boat Building at the Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development (CATD) in Nadave, Tailevu, exemplifies this leadership.
An alumna of the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), Salote possesses Australian qualifications in International Skills Training and vocational education training roles, which have refined her teaching methods and enabled her to effectively disseminate her knowledge at CATD.
A mother of six from Naikawaga Village, she credits her achievements to her unwavering determination and hard work. Her journey started at the Suva Vocational Centre and was further inspired by a 2003 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) workshop for village fisherwomen, during which she constructed her first fishing canoe with guidance from her trainer.
This experience fueled her enthusiasm for boat building, and she subsequently co-facilitated another workshop for nine women in Dromuninuku, Vanua Levu. Salote envisions that the boat-building course at CATD, backed by APTC, will have a profound effect on communities dependent on fisheries for their livelihoods.
“Graduates will greatly benefit, as will their communities. The ability to build and repair boats will enhance their capacity to fish and generate income,” she stated.
As a trainer, Salote takes pride in equipping local youth with essential boat-building skills, which bolster community resilience. “This course goes beyond boat construction—it’s about shaping the future of our community. By acquiring the skills to create and repair boats, we empower ourselves to sustain our livelihoods and adapt to the changing climate. I am honored to be a part of this journey.”
Salote aspires for more women to enroll in the Certificate III in Sustainable Boat Building course. She noted, “The school has predominantly male-focused courses, but we are witnessing an increase in female enrollment. I encourage more women to participate.”
Salote is setting an example for aspiring boat builders like Arieta Rokotagici Radivatulau, the sole woman among the current 12 students. Arieta commutes daily by boat from Bau Island to attend classes at CATD. “I’m thankful to be part of this course, as I aim to help my village develop climate-resilient boats and repair those that are damaged.”
The boat-building course, which CATD and APTC are seeking to have accredited, addresses the critical need for sustainable practices and empowers youth to take a leading role in mitigating the effects of climate change.
CATD director Aporosa Silatolu expressed his gratitude for APTC’s support. “This initiative is groundbreaking. The practical experience with modern, sustainable materials and technologies will greatly influence students when they return to their home villages.”