In Lawai, women are actively participating in pottery making, enhancing their skills and financial independence. Many women have ceased to engage in this craft but continue to focus on utilizing the surrounding land for economic gain through agriculture.
The local women’s group is known as the Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club. Makelesi Adivugalei, the group’s leader, shared that in the past, women primarily worked with clay and did not possess a dedicated space to operate.
Makelesi, who got married in 1979, also started a women’s group focused on pottery. A woman from Tailevu, who also married in Lawai, was inspired by the collective determination of these women to establish a proper workspace for their pottery activities, which has evolved over time.
Initially, women would create pottery in a small hut, but now they have expanded into a larger workshop where they can work together and display their crafts to visitors. Currently, there are 22 active members in the club.
Among them, five women are seniors, aged around 70, showcasing Lawai’s reputation for pottery making due to its proximity to fertile land. Makelesi highlighted that the women mainly use specific types of clay found within their village.
The women of Lawai are not limited to just pottery; they also craft various items such as baskets and traditional utensils using materials like coconut fronds and wood.
Makelesi expressed optimism that their craftsmanship will significantly contribute to the local economy by supporting their communities, families, churches, and the nation. They often sell their work to local hotels as a means of promoting their pottery skills, enhancing the visibility of the women of Lawai.
She emphasized the importance of preserving traditional crafts initiated by their elders and voices a belief that progress requires diligence and teamwork. The women have collaborated for the betterment of their community and ensure everyone contributes their skills.
The funds raised from their sales are often funneled back into their church and community development projects designed to uplift women’s craftsmanship and support various initiatives.
There are requests to the government for assistance in supporting these entrepreneurial women, particularly those who reside in rural areas with limited resources. Makelesi encourages youth to pursue education earnestly, as their success in learning forms the foundation for future economic stability.