The Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF) has commenced its 2024 grant cycle by awarding funding to 17 new grantee partners who are dedicated to promoting gender equality and facilitating significant social change across Fiji.
According to the organization’s announcement, these grants are designed to bolster WFF’s mission of supporting various women’s groups, gender-diverse organizations, and feminist movements in accordance with intersectional feminist principles. The funding for this year will focus on five crucial 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.
Patricia Naisara, Co-Chair of the Governance Board at Women’s Fund Fiji, highlighted that many of the grantee partners are working in rural, semi-rural, and remote communities, emphasizing the importance of their contributions in enhancing community resilience and fostering sustainable change where it is most needed.
“Our vision for the Fund is to nurture inclusive and long-term funding models that are attuned to the intersectional realities of feminist social change, honoring principles of redistribution and collaborative partnership,” Ms. Naisara stated. She emphasized that community action is pivotal for movements to flourish, and the grants will continue to support local leaders who tirelessly work towards change in their communities.
Acknowledging the efforts of these organizations, a representative from the Australian High Commission praised their work in advancing gender equality through capacity building, raising awareness, and establishing connections among women’s groups. Ms. Elliot remarked that these actions are vital in addressing the emerging challenges faced by women, men, and children in Fiji.
Similarly, New Zealand High Commission’s First Secretary Jane Anderson reiterated her government’s commitment to resilient development in the Pacific, particularly targeting rural and maritime areas through community-focused approaches. She pointed out that true transformative change occurs when the barriers that limit women’s rights and opportunities are illuminated and addressed.
The successful grantees this year include a diverse range of organizations such as Cicia Women’s Network, Levukana Women’s Association, and the Fiji Cancer Society, among others.
This grant cycle reflects a significant step toward fostering gender equality and empowering women across Fiji, showcasing a collective commitment to social progress and community resilience.
In summary, the Women’s Fund Fiji’s 2024 grant cycle is not only a financial boost for various organizations but also a strong endorsement of collaborative efforts aimed at achieving equality and empowerment for women in Fiji. This initiative stands to inspire hope and pave the way for lasting change in society.
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