More than 360 rural women artisans are in the capital city over the next three days, with a unique story to tell through their handmade crafts and products.

Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya said their journey to this expo was marked by determination and pursuit of economic empowerment.

Ms Tabuya said the national women’s expo was not merely a marketplace for exquisite products, but a platform for empowerment, inclusion, and equality.

“These women artisans have not only crafted beautiful artifacts, but have also woven the fabric of empowerment for themselves and their communities,” Ms Tabuya said.

“They have demonstrated that economic independence knows no gender boundaries.”

She said the aisles of the expo painted a reminder of the hurdles these women have overcome geographical challenges, limited resources and societal expectations – to bring their creations to this stage.

Along the margins of the expo, there will be gender-based violence training, women in leadership training, financial literacy, bookkeeping, flower arrangement, sewing maintenance, pattern drafting, and tie and dye skills training that participants can access in the next three days.

Ms Tabuya said key service providers for women’s development in various sectors were also situated at booths.

They will take the stage for awareness sessions regarding their programmes, products and services over the expo period, which everyone has access to.

Rewa Women’s Group members (from left) Karalaini Qalisa, Torika Manapau, Litiana Tuitubau and Luisa Buli
with their display during the sixth National Women’s Expo at the Vodafone Arena on November 21, 2023. Photo: Ronald Kumar

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj