In a remarkable demonstration of rural empowerment, over 300 women, youths, and community leaders convened last month for the Rise Taveuni campaign, orchestrated by the Taveuni Empowerment Women’s Support Group (TEWSG). This grassroots organization, which began as a modest assembly of mothers, farmers, and small business owners, has evolved into a formidable force driving community development initiatives across Fiji’s stunning Garden Island.
The Rise Taveuni campaign represents a pivotal moment, featuring several days of capacity-building workshops, vibrant cultural performances, and meaningful dialogues focused on crucial topics like climate resilience, entrepreneurship, and gender equality. Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua, who attended as the guest of honor, commended the women of Taveuni for setting a national standard and championing empowerment.
Fiji Women’s Rugby captain Alfreda Fisher referred to the event as a movement, urging all of Fiji to invest in women across all sectors. The successes displayed by the women of Taveuni underscore an essential narrative: they are not merely survivors, but leaders ready to take action. The event’s storytelling circle was particularly moving, providing a platform for rural women to share their experiences, many for the first time. One participant, Litia Mavoa from Bouma, shared how the campaign empowered her to voice her thoughts, reinforcing the notion that every voice matters.
Moreover, TEWSG’s intergenerational approach engaged local youth, providing learning opportunities from established women leaders within their own communities. As the world gears up to celebrate International Day of Rural Women in 2025, TEWSG embodies the theme of “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” TEWSG President Maria Tawake encapsulated this spirit, stating, “We may be small, but our message is big.”
Community gatherings like this illustrate the ongoing commitment to women’s empowerment evident in other recent events across Fiji, such as International Women’s Day celebrations and the Women Invigorating the Nation (WIN) convention. Those events have highlighted the struggles faced by women, particularly rural women navigating obstacles to access education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities. These consistent narratives showcase the resilience and resolve of women as they continue to push boundaries and redefine their roles within society.
As action surrounding women’s empowerment continues to gain momentum in Fiji, the tales of these women symbolize hope and a future rich with potential. Their stories are a call to the broader community: to recognize, support, and invest in women, fostering an inclusive society where women’s contributions are valued and celebrated.
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