The 2024 7th PINA Media Summit in Niue will emphasize the establishment of safe spaces for women in media throughout the Pacific. Makereta Komai, PINA manager and Editor, noted that discussions surrounding the challenges women face in media began at the 6th PINA Summit in Honiara in 2022.
“PINA has elevated the issues affecting women in media to the regional agenda through discussions with female media representatives across the Pacific,” Ms. Komai stated. “Previously, this was not a major concern for our media organizations, which did not view Women in Media (WIM) as a significant issue.”
The conversation initiated in Honiara led to a collaboration between Ms. Komai and Rosi Doviverata, the acting CEO of the Fiji Sun. Together, they recognized the need for a network where women in media could share their experiences in a supportive environment. This prompted the establishment of the Women in Media organization in Fiji, which has gained attention from major Melanesian nations like Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands.
According to a co-founder of WIM Fiji, the organization has provided a platform for female journalists in Fiji to openly discuss their challenges. “The safe space we have created has empowered us to engage in conversations about the issues we encounter at work. As a collective, we can present a stronger voice to our employers regarding our experiences,” she explained.
The importance of these discussions will continue at the Media Summit in Niue, where WIM Fiji plans to share their experiences and insights.