A group of women from the Lawai area are actively engaging in pottery making, showcasing their craftsmanship. Many of these women are moving away from traditional pottery practices to enhance the productive use of their land, which they cultivate for income generation.
The women’s organization in Lawai is known as the ‘Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club.’ As highlighted by Makelesi Adivugalei, the group leader, they primarily engaged in outdoor clay gathering, with no shelter for protection during their work.
Founded in 1979, the club began as a community effort to utilize their skills in crafts, specifically pottery making. One woman from Tailevu, who later married in Lawai, was inspired by the ongoing clay collection by the local women, leading to the establishment of a house for their work which still functions today.
Initially, the women sold their clay products to nearby hotels in Sigatoka. They started from a modest structure but now operate out of a larger workshop, allowing them to craft and display their creations more effectively.
Currently, there are 22 women involved in this organization. Among them are five elder women, each in their 70s, from Lawai, known for its rich history in pottery crafting due to its fertile lands nearby.
Makelesi emphasized that they utilize different types of clay effective for their crafts, mainly sourced from their village. The women create not only pottery, but also diverse items like small pots and baskets used for various purposes.
Makelesi expressed confidence that their handcrafting efforts will significantly contribute to the economic stability of their community, families, churches, and the broader nation. They regularly showcase their pottery in local hotels, drawing attention and validation for their work.
There is ongoing encouragement for the women to continue traditional crafts, as these skills were passed down from past generations.
“Without our community’s steadfastness, we would not succeed,” said Makelesi, affirming that many of the women currently engaged in pottery had become skilled artisans due to their continuous practice in the village setting.
After a month of collective effort, the women meet to pool their earnings, which are directed towards community needs, development plans, and the welfare of themselves and their families.
Makelesi has also called on the government for support to help these women thrive in their crafting endeavors, particularly for those in larger rural areas. She advised the youth to take educational pursuits seriously, suggesting that education is the foundation for future success and financial stability.