The ongoing pursuit of gender equality and inclusivity in workplaces was a central theme at the 14th Annual Fiji Human Resources Institute Awards. FHRI President Kameli Batiweti emphasized the evolution of equity, diversity, and inclusion over the years, noting significant progress in female representation within the human resources sector. A decade ago, women comprised a mere 14 percent of HR roles; however, many organizations now boast nearly equal gender ratios, with some achieving a 40-60 balance.
Batiweti remarked, “We’ve come a long way. In the past, the gender balance in HR was quite different, but today, we are seeing a positive shift. Many organizations have successfully transitioned towards a more inclusive structure, where diversity is not just welcomed but actively encouraged.” He highlighted that this year’s awards displayed nearly equal gender representation, with 52 percent of attendees identifying as women and 48 percent as men.
“Tonight, I’m pleased to see a much more balanced crowd compared to previous years, with a near 50-50 split between men and women. It’s encouraging to witness this progress, and it’s something we should all be proud of,” Batiweti added.
Prithi Devi, HR Executive at the Sugar Cane Growers Fund and a Gold Recipient at the event, shared her organization’s success in achieving gender parity, noting that it has reached a 50-50 balance between male and female staff over the past five years. Devi attributed this milestone to deliberate efforts aimed at creating equal opportunities within the workplace.
The event served as a celebration of organizations and HR professionals who are driving meaningful change in workplace diversity, fostering an environment where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. This commitment to inclusivity not only benefits employees but also enriches the organizations they serve, showcasing the importance of diversity in modern business practices.
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