At the recent 7th Women Expo 2025 held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, Litia Naitanui, spokesperson for the Women With Disabilities Rewa Branch, urged participants to concentrate on abilities rather than disabilities. She pointed out the significance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone as a means to discover new opportunities and build connections among women.
Representing her branch at the National Women’s Expo, Naitanui showcased a diverse array of handcrafted items by women with disabilities, including aromatic oils, traditional fans, and jewelry crafted from recycled materials, promoting the “Trash to Cash” initiative. She emphasized that these creations not only demonstrate individual creativity but also embody the collective strength of the many women represented at the event.
The event was officially inaugurated by the Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, who described the expo as a crucial platform for women to display their skills and broaden their networks, facilitating economic opportunities. She encouraged participants to share insights and motivate each other throughout the expo.
Kiran highlighted that Fiji draws over a million tourists each year, urging artisans to tailor their unique products for larger markets to boost economic development and community progress. The expo is perceived as more than just a marketplace, symbolizing a celebration of women’s resilience, creativity, and societal contributions.
Aligning with the messages from Naitanui and Kiran, the expo underscores that empowering women is essential for promoting economic growth and resilience within communities. With continued support and resources, the future looks promising for women’s rights and empowerment in Fiji—a testament to the potential achievements when diverse talents join forces.
This event highlights the progress made in women’s empowerment, underscoring the need for ongoing support to ensure that women, particularly those with disabilities, can thrive both socially and economically. It serves as a hopeful reminder of the strength and creativity women bring to society, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity and empowerment.
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