The Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF) has officially begun its grant cycle for 2024, providing funding to 17 newly selected grantee partners dedicated to promoting gender equality and fostering significant social change across Fiji. This initiative is designed to enhance the organization’s mission, which aims to support a wide array of women’s groups, gender-diverse organizations, and feminist movements, adhering to principles of intersectional feminism.
The current funding cycle emphasizes five critical focus 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. This targeted approach is expected to create a lasting impact within communities, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas, where the majority of the grantee partners operate.
Patricia Naisara, Co-Chair of the Governance Board at WFF, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in fostering resilience and sustainable change in communities that need it most. She underlined the essential role that local leaders play in driving this movement for change and affirmed the fund’s commitment to supporting these grassroots efforts.
The Australian High Commission recognized the importance of fostering community connections, raising awareness, and building capacity as integral parts of advancing gender equality in Fiji. They expressed their ongoing commitment to increasing women’s leadership and economic advancement, viewing their partnership with WFF as an exemplary model of collaboration.
Similarly, Jane Anderson from the New Zealand High Commission emphasized her government’s dedication to bolstering resilience and supporting community-centered development in the Pacific, particularly in rural areas. She articulated that transformative change occurs when societal constraints around women’s rights are addressed and when women’s rights organizations are prioritized.
The organizations benefiting from the 2024 funding cycle include a variety of groups such as the Cicia Women’s Network, Taveuni Empowerment Women’s Support Group, and the Fiji Cancer Society, among others. Collectively, these organizations reflect a commitment to empowering women and fostering substantial social progress.
This initiative not only brings hope for enhanced gender equality in Fiji but also sets a powerful example of international cooperation aimed at creating meaningful, long-lasting change. The combined efforts of local organizations and international partners highlight the importance of unity in addressing gender issues and promoting social equity. As these groups receive support, the potential for significant forward momentum in women’s rights and societal transformation grows stronger.
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