Women in the village of Lawai are actively engaged in pottery, selling their handmade goods. Many are unable to explore other employment options and instead focus on maximizing the use of the fertile land surrounding them to produce clay items for income.
The Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club, led by Makelesi Adivugalei, highlights the significance of community support and the historical practices of women who once mainly created pottery outside their homes.
Established in 1979, the club has grown and evolved its members’ skills as pottery artisans. An example is a woman from Tailevu who, after marrying into Lawai, was motivated by local women to collaborate on creating a communal workspace for crafting pottery.
Recently, the women have expanded their product line to meet the demands of hotels in the nearby Sigatoka region. They transitioned from working in a small shed to utilizing a larger training centre equipped for their projects and other community activities.
Currently, 22 women are members of the club, with five seasoned artisans in their seventies contributing rich experience. Lawai is known for its unique clay production, primarily utilized by the local potters.
In addition to basic pottery, the artisans create a diverse range of products including intricate pots, small bowls, decorative items, and various clay figures.
Makelesi believes this craftsmanship can greatly benefit the local economy and community life, with plans to promote their products widely, thereby enhancing both household and community livelihoods.
The women frequently sell to hotels, establishing connections that also serve to showcase their skills to a broader audience. Makelesi emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional crafts and encourages the younger generation to continue learning to ensure sustainability.
In a heartfelt reminder of their roots, she shares a proverb: “If we are strong, we will achieve something.” This serves as motivation for the women to work diligently, as much of their income is derived from the sales of their pottery.
The earnings support not just their families but also contribute to local projects and initiatives aimed at uplifting their community and helping women thrive.
Makelesi has urged the government to provide assistance to support women engaged in such handicrafts, particularly those living in rural areas. She advocates for education and empowerment, encouraging the youth to pursue their studies vigorously to create a prosperous future for themselves.
The community’s collective efforts demonstrate the resilience and resourcefulness of the women of Lawai in maintaining their cultural heritage while adapting to economic challenges.