The Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF) remains committed to promoting the human rights of persons with disabilities in Fiji, having invested over FJD $1.2 million since 2018.
At the opening of the 2024 Biennial Meeting of the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation (FDPF) and also its 40th anniversary of Advocacy and Awareness, the Acting Executive Director of Women’s Fund Fiji, Vicky Yee said they have seen positive impacts over the years.
“WFF is proud to be a long-time partner of FDPF. Over the years, we have seen the positive impact your programs have had across Fiji. FDPF’s initiatives have empowered women with disabilities to become leaders and decision-makers,” she said.
She added that WFF’s support has empowered women and girls with disabilities, fostering their leadership and active participation in decision-making at various levels.
“A key success was the “Revisioning Women Living with Disabilities” project, which paved the way for women with disabilities to break barriers and take on leadership roles. WFF has also helped FDPF revive inactive branches in Rakiraki, Ba, Lautoka/Yasawa, and Tavua, with new ones formed in Koro and Gau,” she said.
“Earlier this year, 20 women with disabilities from Tavua participated in empowerment training designed to build their confidence and entrepreneurial skills. This training was a part of FDPF’s broader efforts to support women with disabilities in achieving financial independence and leadership roles.”
The FDPF President, Lanieta Tuimabu expressed gratitude for WFF’s partnership, emphasizing its technical and financial support, which has strengthened FDPF’s governance and helped empower women and girls with disabilities.
“We would like to first acknowledge the tremendous support from Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF), through the Australian Government, to the Federation. WFF has not only been a donor but a true partner. This partnership is built on mutual understanding and respect,” she said.
“From the beginning of our collaboration, we saw that WFF fully embraced the principle of ‘Nothing about us without us.’ They worked closely with us, engaging in meaningful discussions to ensure that FDPF’s affiliates and functional areas were prioritized.
“This grant has been one of the most successful, as it not only targets women and girls with disabilities but also strengthens our organization. Through capacity-building trainings in governance, finance, and communications, we have been able to enhance our internal structures and staffing, ensuring sustainability for the future.”
