Around 2,500 women micro business owners from various parts of Fiji convened last Friday in Suva to celebrate the 14th South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Foundation Day and the 2023 annual awards, which highlighted their accomplishments and contributions to the economy.
Established in December 2010 by American social entrepreneur Greg Casagrande, SPBD is Fiji’s largest microfinance network, boasting over 7,000 members across eight branches in Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Ovalau, and Taveuni. The organization has empowered more than 20,000 women in approximately 450 Fijian villages and communities.
Fiji’s President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, officiated the event, paying tribute to the women whose efforts have transformed their families’ lives and made significant impacts on their communities. He emphasized that the awards ceremony was more than just a presentation of accolades; it celebrated the resilience, creativity, and dedication of women striving to improve their circumstances and those of their families and communities.
Ratu Wiliame highlighted this year’s theme, “Women-led micro enterprises: enriching lives and building future,” as a strong reflection of the substantial impact women have on Fiji’s socio-economic landscape. He noted that women-led enterprises often focus on sustainable livelihoods, addressing social challenges, and nurturing future generations, underscoring the importance of women’s economic empowerment as agents of change for future prosperity.
Lorainne Seeto, the chief judge at the awards and an independent board director for SPBD, remarked on the challenging task of selecting winners, stating that each finalist exhibited extraordinary qualities deserving recognition.
SPBD founder Greg Casagrande encouraged the women of SPBD to maintain their dreams, particularly emphasizing the importance of ensuring that their children receive a complete education.
The highlight of the awards was the SPBD Businesswoman of the Year award, which was awarded to Elena Tinai of the Saru Centre, Lautoka Branch. Additional awards included the Centre of the Year Award to Waimanu Centre, Suva Branch; Centre Chief of the Year Award to Alisi Naiqama; Centre Secretary of the Year Award to Elena Lagia; Financial Education Facilitator of the Year Award to Salaseini Maca, Joritani Centre, Lautoka Branch; Best Saver of the Year Award to Senimili Draunileva, Tau Centre, Sigatoka Branch; Centre Saver of the Year Award to Suva Market Vendor Centre, Suva Branch; and New Centre of the Year Award to Naivita Centre, Savusavu Branch.