Sade urges women to pursue their dreams

Self-employed businesswoman Luisa Sade is encouraging women to step up and keep moving forward to achieve their dreams.

Ms Sade was among women artisans who gathered at the Fiji Football Association grounds in Labasa yesterday to mark International Women’s Day and take part in a product development specification training organised for women in Macuata.

She said she had been doing screen printing and tie-dye work for almost six years.

“Before this, I used to sell parcels to earn a living. Things changed when I began to believe in myself and realised I was meant to follow my dreams,” Ms Sade said.

The 66-year-old said she once relied on fishing to support herself.

“I used to catch fish and sell them to earn a living, but I never gave up. I kept hoping that one day things would change,” the mother of one said.

Ms Sade said her passion for creative work kept her motivated.

“My message to women on International Women’s Day is simple be yourself and be your own star.”

She also encouraged women to enter fields traditionally dominated by men.

“I truly encourage women to step into male-dominated fields. Fishing is mostly seen as men’s work, but I did it to support myself,” she said.

Ms Sade hopes her story will inspire other women who want to start their own small businesses.

“I love seeing women succeed. I wish every woman love, support and the confidence to believe in themselves. You are strong and you can be your own hero.”