Women from the village of Lawai are actively engaging in pottery work, selling their handcrafted items. They are eagerly focused on maximizing the use of the land around them for sustainable income opportunities. The community organization leading this initiative is called the Naboumasi-masi Pottery Club.
Makelesi Adivugalei, the club’s leader, noted that in the past, these women have primarily relied on farming, often without proper shelter for their activities. The pottery efforts began when Makelesi and her group started crafting pottery as a cooperative effort.
Since its inception in 1979, the organization has provided the women with a platform to improve their craft and livelihood, contributing to their community’s economy. A local woman from Tailevu, who also married into Lawai, has played a significant role in supporting the establishment of a dedicated space for the women to work, leading to the continual growth of their skills.
Initially, these women crafted their works in small thatched huts, but today they have access to substantial facilities, enhancing their productivity and creating a space for their unique artistry to thrive. Currently, 22 women are actively participating in the club.
Among them, five elderly women, each in their 70s, continue to make significant contributions to the craft, showcasing Lawai’s reputation as a community skilled in pottery. The types of clay utilized are varied, with preference for the rich, malleable earth found in their region. The women create not only pottery but also other items such as small figurines and gardening tools, which further diversifies their craft.
The efforts of these women are projected to have a positive economic impact on their village, families, and broader community. Members of the club often visit local hotels to demonstrate and sell their wares, helping to bring recognition to Lawai’s talented artisans.
Makelesi emphasizes the importance of honing traditional skills, as they stem from the guidance of the older generations. She reinforces the message that through hard work, their efforts will flourish, leading to prosperity.
The women take pride in their accomplishments and the revenue generated contributes to their communal and spiritual commitments. Additionally, the women pooled their earnings together, allowing for more substantial community initiatives and collaborative projects.
Makelesi is advocating for government support to assist women in rural areas, encouraging young people to pursue education to attain their capabilities, which she believes is fundamental for economic improvement.
This cooperative effort showcases both the resourcefulness and resilience of the women in Lawai, set against a backdrop of tradition and community spirit.