Women empowered to lead up North

Women from across Macuata gathered in Labasa yesterday for the launch of a transformative two-day leadership and political participation training programme, spearheaded by the Vu-Care Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection.

Held at the Hotel Northwinds conference room, the programme is guided by the theme “Leading Change: Women Shaping Fiji’s Future – Empowering Women to Lead Communities from the Ground to Government.” It aims to equip women with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to take on leadership roles in both traditional and modern governance systems, including political spaces.

Participants include members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama Macuata and the Labasa Women’s Forum.

Vu-Care Foundation president Amelia Simmons, speaking at the opening, highlighted the importance of amplifying women’s voices in decision-making.

“Women are the backbone of our communities, yet their voices are often underrepresented in leadership and political decision-making,” Ms Simmons said.
“This training is about breaking barriers and ensuring women are empowered to lead change in their communities, shaping the future of Fiji.”

The sessions are facilitated by experts from Vu-Care Foundation and FemLINK Pacific, covering topics such as leadership qualities, personal empowerment, electoral processes, public speaking, and campaign strategies. The interactive format also addresses challenges women face in navigating traditional and political leadership pathways.

The programme will conclude with a certificate presentation, recognising participants’ commitment to advancing women’s leadership and political engagement.

This initiative reflects a collective effort to strengthen gender equity and nurture women leaders across Fiji, reinforcing the role of women as agents of change in their communities. 

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