Empowering Women Through Clay: The Pottery Revolution in Lawai Village

In the heart of Lawai Village, Nadroga, Vani Raqoli has turned her passion for pottery into a thriving business, aiming to pass her skills onto others. At 43, Raqoli has spent over two decades learning and mastering the art of pottery-making, initially under the guidance of her mother-in-law and aunts-in-law. This traditional skill, common in several surrounding villages such as Nayawa and Nakabuta, has not only become her livelihood but also a source of inspiration for her to empower other women in her community.

Raqoli began her pottery journey shortly after her marriage, finding joy and fulfillment in working with clay. Despite facing challenges such as unpredictable weather, which affects the drying of pottery, she continues to draw customers, primarily tourists exploring the village. She often showcases her creations in local hotels along the Coral Coast, using these opportunities to expand her market.

A significant portion of her journey echoes that of the Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club, a community initiative led by Makelesi Adivugalei. Established in 1979, the club has brought together local women to produce and sell handcrafted pottery. With 22 active members, including several elders boasting over 70 years of experience, the club emphasizes the importance of traditional skills and community support.

Both Raqoli and the club women share a commitment to encouraging local youth, especially girls, to learn these valuable crafts. Raqoli advocates for women and girls to embrace their traditional art forms and explore additional skills such as sewing and weaving as viable income sources.

Looking ahead, Raqoli harbors aspirations of expanding her business and tapping into the export market, encouraged by foreign customers. Her story highlights not only personal triumph through adversity but also a collective effort to strengthen the economic standing of women in rural Fiji.

In a region where creativity and community empower each other, the women of Lawai showcase resilience and determination, working hard to preserve their cultural heritage while securing financial futures for themselves and generations to come.