President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote along with guests commemorated the Commonwealth Day and International Women’s Day at the State House yesterday.

Commonwealth Day

He thanked the unparalleled service of the Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in the past decades to Fiji.

British High Commissioner to Fiji, George Edgar delivered the Queen’s Commonwealth message on the celebration of friendship, spirit of unity and the achievements of the Commonwealth.

“While the experiences of the last year have been different across the Commonwealth, stirring examples of courage, commitment and selfless dedication to duty, have been demonstrated in every Commonwealth nation and territory.”

Her Majesty also highlighted the importance of a common future that is sustainable and more secure.

International Women’s Day

Also at the State House yesterday was Sangeeta Mangubhai, the Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Fiji Country Programme.

She has more than 25 years of experience as a coral reef ecologist. She promotes women empowerment in marine science and conservation.

“I really want to encourage the next generation to not let gender stop them from achieving their goal because women can become scientists too, you can get your PhD and can be leading in your field of work,” Ms Mangubhai said.

Ms Mangubhai is a Doctor of Philosophy in Coral Reef Ecology.

“I think we should not let society or anyone tell you or stop you from achieving those dreams.”

She works on community-based management, coastal fisheries, payment for ecosystem services, gender, fisheries, marine protected areas, marine spatial planning, environmental policy, and climate change.

“Part of my journey is finding like-minded people who are just as committed to elevating women, promoting and advocating equal rights for women. They keep you inspired and make you feel like you’re not trying to achieve things on your own,” she said.