Microfinance institution South Pacific Business Development (Fiji) Ltd has officially launched the 2024 Businesswoman of the Year Awards, a significant celebration of women entrepreneurs in Fiji. The 15th iteration of this event represents SPBD Fiji’s long-standing commitment to recognizing and honoring the accomplishments of female business leaders who have made impactful contributions through microenterprise.
Scheduled to take place on October 3rd, this year’s awards will continue to build on SPBD Fiji’s legacy, which spans 14 years of celebrating the outstanding achievements of women across the country. The awards provide a platform for recognizing resilience, leadership, innovation, and financial literacy among women entrepreneurs.
Lorraine Seeto, SPBD director and chair of the judging panel, emphasized that these awards are more than just a ceremonial event; they represent a movement that highlights the transformative power of women in business. She noted that the honorees are visionaries making significant impacts in their businesses and communities.
The awards will feature eight categories, recognizing both individual and center-level achievements, including the prestigious SPBD Businesswoman of the Year, Financial Education Facilitator of the Year, and Centre of the Year. Nominees will be drawn from 55 Grade A Centres, which have met strict criteria demonstrating exceptional financial performance and active engagement.
SPBD’s general manager, Elrico Munoz, explained that the nomination and selection process involves several meticulous steps, from initial screening to on-site visits, ensuring that the winners embody the best qualities of innovation and leadership. Munoz added that women-led microenterprises greatly contribute to Fiji’s GDP and provide substantial employment, representing the backbone of the nation’s economy.
Moreover, this year’s awards theme, “Women Microentrepreneurs Making Macro Impact,” reflects the significant socio-economic contributions women entrepreneurs make in Fiji. Since its founding in 2010, SPBD has disbursed over $100 million in loans, empowering nearly 8,000 members nationwide. The microfinance organization is projected to reach a remarkable milestone of $125 million in disbursements by July.
While challenges persist—such as the global economic landscape affecting microenterprise—women entrepreneurs in Fiji have shown great resilience, adapting to changing conditions and six evolving through digital tools and innovative methods. The continued recognition of their contributions through initiatives like these is a vital step toward empowering women and fostering sustainable economic growth.
This celebration of women’s entrepreneurship not only honors past achievements but also inspires future generations, highlighting the critical role women play in driving development and positive change in their communities. The awards serve as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring female entrepreneurs throughout Fiji.
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