Women from the villages of Nuku, Cakova, Keteira, and Maloku came together for the inaugural Women’s Mini-Craft Show at Naroi, Moala, aimed at promoting their handmade crafts and fostering empowerment within the community.
This event, organized by the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection, served as an excellent opportunity for women to exchange ideas, learn new skills, and promote their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. The participants exhibited a variety of traditional items such as sulu and Jamba, alongside fine mats, handmade crafts, and fresh produce. This gathering not only celebrated traditional Fijian craftsmanship but also showcased the diverse talents and resilience of women living in the maritime islands.
During the opening ceremony, Draunidalo, the Principal of Yasayasa Moala College, expressed deep appreciation for the women and highlighted their critical role in society. He stated, “Women are the backbone of our communities, and their contributions extend beyond their homes. Events like these empower them economically and socially, encouraging self-reliance and innovation.”
Kalo Leba, the President of the Maloku Women’s Group, expressed her excitement for the event, noting the efforts taken by women to prepare their families and showcase their handicrafts. She mentioned that they were selling items such as sulu, Jamba, and honey products produced by their women’s group project.
Unise Vosataki from Vadra stressed the significance of such events for women in rural areas, sharing that not everyone can travel to Suva for the Women’s National Expo. She conveyed gratitude for the opportunity to sell their crafts, emphasizing how this platform helps women enhance their entrepreneurial skills and expand their networks.
This landmark event highlighted the commitment of the Ministry to empower women in rural and maritime communities. By enabling women to showcase their talents and earn an income, the government is promoting gender equality and supporting sustainable community development.
In summary, this event reflects a hopeful step towards greater empowerment for women in Fiji, fostering both economic independence and social cohesion in the community. It illustrates the positive impact of collective initiatives on women’s livelihoods and the broader societal recognition of their contributions.
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