Westpac Fiji has proudly celebrated the achievements and ambitions of women and girls across the nation with its annual Women and Girls Education Grants. The bank held certificate ceremonies in Suva and Lautoka, honoring 30 recipients who have demonstrated a strong commitment to education.
During the event, Westpac Fiji’s chief executive Shane Smith reinforced the bank’s dedication to empowering women and girls through educational initiatives. He emphasized the diverse background of this year’s applicants, pointing out significant participation from the outer regions of Fiji as well as the western and central divisions. “We are proud to support initiatives that create lasting impact for individuals, families, and communities,” Smith stated during the ceremony in Suva. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the grant program, which aims to support the educational goals of Fijian women and girls.
Emma Low, the managing director of Westpac Pacific, highlighted the transformative power of education, reiterating the bank’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusion within the community. The program received over 1,000 applications and awarded grants ranging from $500 to $2,500, covering primary, secondary, and tertiary educational levels.
In an innovative approach this year, Westpac introduced new formats for submissions, allowing secondary students to present video and performance-based entries alongside traditional essays. This change encourages creativity and self-expression among the applicants. Among the notable recipients were sisters Vivian and Taesha Chand from Ba, who learned about the opportunity online and decided to apply.
The strong response to the grant program this year, with over 1,000 applications, underscores Westpac Fiji’s broader commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community upliftment. The celebration of these young women not only honors their achievements but also inspires a brighter future for education in Fiji.
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