Approximately 2,500 women micro business owners from across Fiji convened last Friday in Suva to celebrate the 14th South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Foundation Day and the organization’s annual awards for 2023, honoring their contributions to the economy.
SPBD, the largest microfinance network in Fiji, established in December 2010 by American social entrepreneur Greg Casagrande, boasts over 7,000 members across eight branches in Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Ovalau, and Taveuni. The organization has supported more than 20,000 women throughout its network of 450 villages and communities in Fiji.
During the event, President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, praised the women for their achievements in transforming their families’ lives and making significant contributions to their communities.
“This evening is not solely about awarding individuals; it’s about celebrating the resilience, creativity, and dedication of women who are enhancing their lives and uplifting their families and communities across our great nation,” he stated.
He highlighted this year’s theme, “Women-led micro enterprises: enriching lives and building future,” emphasizing the substantial impact women are having on Fiji’s socio-economic development.
“The comprehensive nature of women-led enterprises often aims at creating sustainable livelihoods, tackling social issues, and nurturing future generations,” he explained. “Empowering women economically enables them to become vital agents of change, promoting prosperity for the next generations.”
Chief judge of the awards and independent SPBD board director, Lorainne Seeto, noted that selecting the winners was a challenging task, as all finalists exhibited remarkable qualities deserving of recognition.
Founder Greg Casagrande encouraged the SPBD women to keep their aspirations alive and to strive toward them daily. He emphasized the importance of providing complete education for their children, including tertiary schooling, as part of their dreams.
Elena Tinai from the Lautoka Branch was honored with the main award, the SPBD Businesswoman of the Year. Other notable awards included the Waimanu Centre from Suva Branch winning Centre of the Year, Alisi Naiqama earning Centre Chief of the Year, and Elena Lagia receiving Centre Secretary of the Year. Additional awards were given to Salaseini Maca, Joritani Centre for Financial Education Facilitator of the Year, Senimili Draunileva, Tau Centre for Best Saver of the Year, Suva Market Vendor Centre for Centre Saver of the Year, and Naivita Centre from Savusavu Branch for New Centre of the Year.