A group of women in the village of Lawai are actively engaged in pottery work, transforming their skills into a viable source of income. While some of them have stopped pottery making, they remain hopeful about maximizing the use of the land available around them to enhance their earnings.
The women’s organization in Lawai is named the ‘Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club’. According to Makelesi Adivugalei, the leader of the organization, they used to craft pottery outdoors and did not have proper facilities for their work.
Makelesi has been married and living in Lawai since 1979. It was during this time that she also became involved in the women’s group dedicated to pottery work. A woman from Tailevu, who is also married to a man from Lawai, inspired the establishment of a proper workspace so that they could carry on with their pottery-making activities.
Initially, the women began using a small open area which eventually led to a well-established facility where they can work on their pottery while having a place to showcase their creations to potential buyers from hotels in the nearby Sigatoka area. They have transitioned from a small gathering to a large workspace allowing the women to not only produce pottery but also house their local craft.
Currently, 22 women are part of this organization. Many of the older women, aged over 70, come from the Lawai area, recognized for its pottery tradition, as they are located near suitable lands for clay extraction.
Makelesi noted that they tend to use specific types of clay found within the village, which is important for their craft. The group not only crafts pottery but also produces small items, including kitchen utensils, bowls, and several other products.
She emphasized that the success of their pottery work would significantly contribute to their community’s economy, households, churches, and the wider nation.
The women often sell their products to various hotels, showcasing their craftsmanship and bringing recognition to the pottery techniques honed by the women of Lawai. Makelesi remarked on the importance of continually improving their crafts, as their skills were initially passed down from their ancestors.
“Without hard work, we will not achieve anything,” is a saying that resonates among these women, motivating them to continue with their pottery work and strengthen their community ties.
Revenue generated from their sales goes towards community projects and the women’s development initiatives, enhancing their livelihoods.
Makelesi also appealed to the government to provide support to assist these women in their local communities, urging that investment in education would empower the younger generation to secure better futures.
She encourages the youth to study diligently, emphasizing that education is a fundamental path to prosperity.