Women in Vanuabalavu, Lau, are encouraged to sell their handicrafts as an additional source of income. This follows the success of the Vanuabalavu Expo, where several women earned more money over just three days.
Daulako Mavoa of Boitaci Village was among those who benefited from the expo. “Women have the skills and capabilities to thrive using their handicraft skills,” she said. “We saw many women displaying woven baskets, mats, and other items that have helped earn some money for their families during the past three days.”
Ms. Mavoa emphasized the importance of events like the Vanuabalavu Expo in showcasing the talents and skills of local women. She also highlighted the need for more training to help these women improve their handicraft abilities. “I earned more than $300 from selling coconut oil, sasa brooms, and baskets made from coconut leaves,” she shared. “Our island has many natural resources. We need to train these women on how to further enhance their knowledge in handicrafts by utilizing these resources.”
Mrs. Mavoa, who has three children, received strong support from her family for her participation in the expo. Her children, two of whom work in Viti Levu while one lives on Vanuabalavu, helped cover the costs of her kalavata and other necessary items for her crafts.
“I enjoyed being part of this expo and meeting other women from the 17 villages of Vanuabalavu, who came in their different kalavata, which was really nice to see,” she said.
The three-day event concluded yesterday.