AS we celebrate International Women’s Day this week, Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF) is also marking a significant milestone of its own.
The Fund celebrates five years as an independent organisation and nearly eight years since it began its journey of resourcing and strengthening women-led initiatives across Fiji.
The Fund was initially introduced as the Fiji Women’s Fund, a program supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Established to address the critical funding gap faced by women’s organizations, the program laid the foundation for what would later become Women’s Fund Fiji.
Over time, and with growing national ownership and leadership, the Fund transitioned into an independent local organization.
Today, as a standalone entity, it has expanded its support base and diversified its donor partnerships, strengthening its sustainability and long-term vision.
What began as a bold response to a persistent funding gap has grown into a nationally recognized feminist fund supporting transformative change across Fiji.
In its early years, the need was clear. Across urban centres, rural communities, and maritime islands, women were leading efforts to respond to gender-based violence, support survivors, advocate for human rights, promote health and wellbeing, and strengthen climate resilience.
Yet many of these women-led groups struggled to access funding. Application processes were often complex, reporting requirements overwhelming, and opportunities limited for smaller or emerging organizations.
Women’s Fund Fiji was introduced to change that reality.
Built on feminist principles and trust-based philanthropy, the Fund was designed to move resources directly into the hands of women who understand their communities best. Its approach emphasized flexible, accessible grants, paired with long-term institutional strengthening.
“From the beginning, Women’s Fund Fiji was about shifting power,” Governance Board Chair Patricia Naisara said.
“We saw incredible women doing critical work in their communities but without the financial backing they deserved. Our role has been to trust them, resource them, and walk alongside them as they grow.”
As the Fund evolved, it became clear that funding alone was not enough. It invested in governance training, financial management systems, safeguarding policies, and advocacy skills to ensure that organizations could build strong foundations and sustain their impact.
Five years ago, the Fund reached a defining moment by becoming an independent organization.
That transition marked a new chapter, one characterised by stronger national ownership, deeper community partnerships, and a sharpened strategic focus.
Independence allowed the Fund to expand its reach while reinforcing its identity as Fiji’s dedicated feminist fund.
Since then, its network has grown to include a diverse range of partners addressing gender-based violence prevention, sexual and reproductive health rights, women’s economic empowerment, youth leadership, disability inclusion, LGBTQI advocacy, and climate justice.
In times of crisis, from natural disasters to economic challenges, WFF has demonstrated the importance of flexible funding. Grassroots organizations, often the first responders within their communities, have been able to pivot quickly, providing emergency support, counselling services, and safe spaces when needed most.
“We have witnessed small community groups transform into strong, confident organizations influencing conversations at national level,” Ms Naisara added.
“That is the power of investing in women. The ripple effects go far beyond a single project. They change families, communities, and ultimately the nation.”
Central to WFF’s work is a commitment to inclusion. The Fund prioritises reaching those often excluded from mainstream development financing, including rural women, young women, women with disabilities, and LGBTQI communities. This intersectional approach recognizes that gender inequality is shaped by geography, age, disability, and socio-economic status.
Over nearly eight years, the impact has been tangible. Informal collectives have formalized into registered entities. Emerging leaders have gained confidence to speak publicly and advocate for change.
Survivors have found pathways to healing and empowerment. Young feminists are stepping into leadership roles with courage and clarity.
More than a funding mechanism, the Fund has grown into a movement builder, connecting organizations, fostering solidarity, and amplifying collective voices to influence policy and public dialogue.
As it celebrates five years of independence, Women’s Fund Fiji reflects not only on how far it has come, but on the work that still lies ahead.
“Our anniversary is a celebration of resilience and collective action,” Ms Naisara emphasised.
“But it is also a reminder that gender equality requires sustained commitment.
We remain dedicated to ensuring that women and girls in Fiji have the resources, voice, and power to shape their own futures.”
From its early beginnings to its expanding national footprint, the Fund continues to redefine what is possible when women are trusted to lead. And as it marks this milestone year, the foundation it has built signals a strong and determined path forward.
n Losalini Bolatagici is the communication of the Women’s Fund Fiji.w
The pioneering team of the Fund led by Michelle Reddy, whose leadership helped lay the foundation for the Fund’s growth and evolution into an independent national feminist organisation. Picture: SUPPLIED
