Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere yesterday commended advances made by women in the Northern Division and asserted they had raised the bar of excellence in the modern work environment.

“You have raised the bar of excellence in the terms of achieving and meeting challenges in some of the work environment of today,” Ratu Wiliame said.

Ratu Wiliame made the comment yesterday to hundreds of women who converged at the Friendly North Inn in Labasa to celebrate International Women’s Day which coincided with a handicraft show.

“This is a day set to recognise, celebrate and acknowledge your tremendous efforts in contributing towards your families, societies and vanua,” he said.

Ratu Wiliame said it was a day marked by the United Nations and the Government for the special recognition of talents and expertise showcased by the women.

“You have taken on and have made changes in our modern day living, hence, Government is taking the lead role in ensuring women’s participation in development and decision making which is vital to our progress as communities and as a nation,” he said.

He said that all these began from their homes.

“This is where our women utilise that God gifted skills or talents as chief executives or senior managers in planning  and financial controllers in homes at ensuring that your families are well taken care of,” Ratu Wiliame said.

“Ladies, be yourselves, unleash your skills and talent. Be strong and be positive thinkers and most of all enjoy this special day.”

Women were selected from the three provinces in Vanua Levu for their artwork and they were able to showcase their handiwork at the event.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

Feedback:  peni.drauna@fijisun.com.fj