A women empowerment initiative in Lautoka successfully brought together 38 women from communities along the Nadi-Ba corridor to participate in a workshop focused on both traditional and contemporary weaving techniques. The event was hosted by the Lifebread Stay Connected Foundation (Fiji) at its Tagaloli, Teidamu premises from March 4 to 7, coinciding with International Women’s Day celebrations.
During the four-day workshop, participants engaged in learning the traditional art of weaving using voivoi, or dried pandanus leaves. They were taught to create various items, including baskets and five distinct types of traditional mats—Voli-Koro, Ibe-vaka Daligana, Ibe Papua, Vaka-bati, and Coco. Furthermore, several participants expanded their creativity by crafting earrings from voivoi leaves, demonstrating how traditional materials can be innovatively transformed into contemporary accessories.
The skills acquired during the workshop not only fostered personal growth but also offered women avenues to generate income, thereby contributing to the financial stability of their families. Loraini, a participant from Ba, shared her enthusiasm, stating that the workshop ignited new ideas on effectively packaging her products, including hand-printed sarongs and garments, for her small business.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants received ‘Certificates of Participation’, recognizing their hard work and dedication. Adi Litiana Sovasova, vice president of Soqosoqo Vakamarama Yasana-O-Ba, officiated the event, commending the women’s commitment and encouraging them to seek further training opportunities that emphasize innovation. She remarked on the potential for creative products developed during the workshop to pave the way for economic empowerment, establishing a sustainable foundation for their families’ livelihoods.
This workshop forms part of Lifebread Stay Connected Foundation’s broader training curriculum focused on craft skills, reinforcing the importance of creativity and entrepreneurship among women in Fiji.
In light of this inspiring initiative, it is hopeful to see similar efforts continuing to flourish, enabling women from various communities to uplift themselves and contribute positively to their societies. By investing in skill development and creativity, these events foster a brighter future for women across Fiji.
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