Encouraging Female Empowerment in Ba: A Focus on Women's Rights and Advancement
Empowering Women in Ba, Fiji: A Successful Collaboration
In the vibrant town of Ba, Fiji, a significant empowerment initiative has been making strides towards enhancing the lives of local women. The "Women's Transformation: A Realistic, Practical Empowerment Process" project, funded by the British High Commission, is a targeted initiative aimed at providing practical training and empowering women to take active roles in decision-making, leadership, and economic development within their communities.
The project, facilitated by the Executive Mentoring Group, has garnered a substantial response, with well-attended workshops organized under its umbrella. The Ba Women's Forum, representing close to 42 registered women's groups in Ba, has been at the forefront of this movement.
The workshops offered a diverse range of topics, including time management, leadership skills, planning, organizing activities, empowerment of women, building self-confidence, improving communication, and creative skills for crafts. The aim was to equip these women with the tools they need to navigate their daily lives with confidence and assertiveness.
The event, held in Ba, was graced by the presence of Steve Chandler, the Acting British High Commissioner. Mr. Chandler presented certificates to the participants, expressing his delight to be a part of the project's completion. He was personally inspired by the work of the Executive Mentoring Group and the Ba Women's Forum.
The impact of the project has been profound, with the women reporting a significant shift in their outlook on life. The programme has fostered a sense of inspiration among the participants, who are looking forward to personal advancement and empowerment. The women recognize the dignity of women and are eager to take on leadership roles within their communities.
The project aligns with broader efforts by the iTaukei Affairs Board and related agencies to enhance the role of women in leadership and community development across Fiji, including rural areas like Ba. Promoting gender equality and women's empowerment is a priority for the UK Government, as evidenced by their financial support for this project, which received approximately FJD$15,000 in funding from the British High Commission.
This project is part of Fiji's commitment to advancing SDG5 (gender equality and empowering all women and girls), which was highlighted in Fiji's national development priorities and international forums. The initiative supports practical empowerment and leadership development for women in Ba, contributing to their improved agency, economic independence, and roles in local governance, underpinned by international support including the British High Commission.
Dr. Maria Doton, the President of the Ba Women's Forum, expressed her gratitude for the project and the opportunities it has provided for the women of Ba. As the women move forward, they do so with renewed confidence and determination, eager to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
[1] Source: iTaukei Affairs Board [2] Source: Executive Mentoring Group [3] Source: Fiji's National Development Plan 2017-2036 [4] Source: United Kingdom Government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Embracing the multifaceted aspects of personal growth, some women in Ba, Fiji, are not only gaining practical leadership skills but also focusing on health and wellness, thus integrating women's health into their holistic development.
- Recognizing the importance of education and self-development, the empowered women in Ba are now eager to apply their newfound knowledge and confidence to promote science-based approaches in their community, fostering a more informed and healthy society.
