During the inaugural Women in Media Conference held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, urged media professionals to reshape narratives surrounding women’s roles in society. “You have the power to change the narrative,” she declared, inspiring journalists and broadcasters present to recognize their crucial influence over public perception and policy.
Kiran called attention to the limited representation of women in leadership roles, stating, “Only five percent of women are on boards, and five percent are in parliament. That needs to change.” She emphasized the sacrifices women make in the industry and spotlighted the growing threats of online harassment and gender-based violence against them, declaring these issues unacceptable and calling for collective action to combat them.
Co-founder of Women in Media, Rosi Doviverata, echoed Kiran’s sentiments, describing the conference as a pivotal moment for the movement, which began in 2022 and has gained traction regionally. Speaking about the emotional significance of the event, she expressed gratitude for the support received and highlighted plans from colleagues in the Solomon Islands and Tonga to replicate this empowering model.
The conference, themed “Resilience in a Rapidly Evolving Media Landscape,” included discussions on leadership pathways for women, the importance of safe media practices, and addressing the gender pay gap in journalism. The collaborative spirit seen throughout the event fostered hope among participants that shared experiences and insights could lead to meaningful change.
Discussions at the event also underscored the pressing need for a supportive network among women in media, emphasizing the potential ripple effects of solidarity across the Pacific. The shared commitment to elevating female voices and transforming narratives represents a positive direction for the future of media in the region, driven by resilience and collective ambition.
As the conversation continues, there is an encouraging momentum towards creating a more inclusive media landscape where women’s contributions are recognized and valued. This conference marks a hopeful step towards achieving greater representation and safety for women in journalism, inspiring ongoing advocacy for change.
Leave a comment