Across the province of Cakaudrove, women are rising supported by the transformative work of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei Cakaudrove (SVTC). Funded by the New Zealand Government and supported by Women’s Fund Fiji, SVTC has brought life-changing awareness, skills training, and financial empowerment across the province including Tavuki on Taveuni Island.
Talisia Maisamoa, 53, wife of Tavuki’s village headman, is one of many women empowered by the program. Inspired by the training, the women embraced solesolevaki, the Fijian value of working together and each committed to planting 50 pandanus trees to support their traditional weaving.
This not only revived a cultural practice but also became a reliable source of income.
Talisia now sells each mat for a minimum of $150, turning her craft into a sustainable livelihood.
“We used to think our work was small. Now we see how powerful we are together,” she says.
Every Tuesday, the women of Tavuki gather to plant, weave, and support each other, building strong bonds and increasing their productivity. Beyond weaving, the women formed business groups to access micro-loans.
This has enabled home renovations, like Talisia’s newly tiled kitchen and bathroom while others have purchased equipment such as a 4WD truck for family businesses and expanded their homes to better support their families.
These efforts have created real and lasting change.
This programme aligns with the New Zealand Government’s priorities to foster safe and secure communities in Fiji and advance gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
Village headman Rafaele Maisamoa says the impact is clear.
Women are now leading many of the community’s development projects, marking a positive shift in Tavuki’s leadership and social dynamics.
Women of Cakaudrove participate in weaving activities and reviving traditional skills for income generation. Pictures: SUPPLIED
