Approximately 2,500 women microbusiness owners from across Fiji convened in Suva last Friday to celebrate the 14th South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Foundation Day and the SPBD’s annual awards for 2023, which honored their achievements and contributions to the economy.
SPBD, the largest microfinance network in Fiji with over 7,000 members across eight branches in Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Ovalau, and Taveuni, was founded in December 2010 by American social entrepreneur Greg Casagrande. Since its inception, the organization has supported over 20,000 women in 450 villages and communities throughout Fiji.
During the event, Fiji’s President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere recognized the women for their transformative impact on their families and communities. “Tonight is not merely about awards; it’s about recognizing the resilience, creativity, and dedication of women who are changing their lives and uplifting their families and communities,” said Ratu Wiliame. He noted that this year’s awards theme, “Women-led micro enterprises: enriching lives and building future,” aptly reflects the significant changes women are making in Fiji’s socio-economic landscape.
Ratu Wiliame emphasized the importance of women-led enterprises that focus on creating sustainable livelihoods, tackling social issues, and raising the next generation. He highlighted that empowering women economically positions them as agents of change, which can lead to prosperity for future generations.
Lorainne Seeto, the chief judge at the awards and an independent board director of SPBD, mentioned that selecting the winners was a challenging process due to the remarkable qualities exhibited by each finalist.
Greg Casagrande, the SPBD founder, encouraged the women to continue pursuing their dreams daily and emphasized the importance of education for their children, including tertiary education.
The prestigious SPBD Businesswoman of the Year award was awarded to Elena Tinai from the Saru Centre in the Lautoka Branch. Other honors included the Centre of the Year Award presented to the Waimanu Centre, Suva Branch; the Centre Chief of the Year Award to Alisi Naiqama; and the Centre Secretary of the Year Award to Elena Lagia. Additionally, Salaseini Maca from the Joritani Centre in Lautoka Branch received the Financial Education Facilitator of the Year Award, while Senimili Draunileva from the Tau Centre in Sigatoka Branch was named Best Saver of the Year. The Centre Saver of the Year Award went to the Suva Market Vendor Centre, Suva Branch, and the New Centre of the Year Award was given to Naivita Centre in Savusavu Branch.