Fiji is ready to be led by a woman, according to FEMLink program manager Elesi Nailati, who spoke after guiding a Women in Politics workshop at the Salvation Army in Labasa. Nailati credited Fiji with a growing pool of strong women leaders who have the skills and experience to hold the top office.
There has been a noticeable rise in women stepping into leadership roles, from chief executive offices to permanent secretaries, Nailati noted. Women now outnumber men in tertiary education graduation rates and make up close to half of Fiji’s population. Yet she cautioned that there is still a need for greater support and greater gender-sensitivity across ministries and the wider public. “People often resist change, but once they see results, mindsets start to shift,” she said.
Asked whether any current woman member of Parliament could lead the country in the future, Nailati replied that they all have immense potential. “They are strong, experienced, and they serve with passion. I believe all of them are capable and ready.”
The broader conversation surrounding Fiji’s path to greater female political participation is reflected in ongoing national discussions and programs. Recent discussions have highlighted the need for systemic change, including proposals for quotas to boost female representation in Parliament, and measures to reduce financial barriers and provide childcare support for women seeking office. In Fiji and the Pacific at large, mentorship and grassroots engagement are being promoted as essential pathways to leadership.
Efforts underway to empower women in politics extend beyond policy debates. Capacity-building trainings for women and youth prospective election candidates—hosted by Dialogue Fiji and supported by government officials—continue to emphasize practical skills, mentorship, and networks. Participants have urged actions to counter online harassment and to create supportive environments for women candidates, with leaders and advocates calling for a multifaceted approach that includes legal protections, campaign finance support, and leadership development.
Voices from the ground, including law students and young advocates, reiterate the message: don’t limit yourself, and never stop learning. The overarching aim is to foster a new generation of women who can actively participate in both the workplace and the political arena, ensuring governance that reflects Fiji’s diverse population.
This moment in Labasa fits within a hopeful trend across Fiji toward greater gender balance in leadership. As policymakers, civil society, and young aspirants collaborate on mentorship, policy reform, and practical support, many observers remain optimistic that more women will assume pivotal roles in shaping Fiji’s future. The shared goal is a more inclusive governance framework that benefits all communities across the islands. The path forward is clear: invest in women, empower tomorrow’s leaders, and build a politics that truly represents Fiji’s people.
Leave a comment