The 1990 Woman of the Year Award was announced at a special function at ANZ House in Suva where Lady Bale Ganilau presented the winner, Lady Merewalesi Tavaiqia, with a framed plaque and $1500 prizemoney.
An article published in The Fiji Times on December 14, 1990 reported Lady Merewalesi was chosen from 32 women from all over Fiji who represented many spheres of life — including service, business, community work, health, education, police force and social work.
Speaking at the function for 150 women guests, ANZ executive Bruce Avent said he thought of the award, not as one for intense rivalry between competitors, but as a celebration.
“It is an occasion for all of us to pause a moment and reflect on and celebrate the very great contribution of women to our South Pacific society,” he said.
He said the award recognised that women have been leading in all sorts of ways in Fiji, not just at a national level in politics and government, but also in business and at community level.
In her speech after receiving the award, Lady Merewalesi said she was honoured to be named the year’s winner.
“It is indeed an honour for me to be chosen the 1990 Woman of the Year. I know there are many deserving women out there tonight, but I would like to say this, that I am receiving this award on behalf of all the women of Fiji, wherever they are,” Lady Merewalesi said.
Lady Merewalesi, 56, was the wife of the Tui Vuda, Ratu Sir Josaia Tavaiqia, and was from Nawaka in Nadi. The couple had three children.
The top 10 nominees were each allowed to bring five guests to the function. The Minister for Women and Culture, Adi Finau Tobakaucoro, was also present at the award night.
Miss Hibiscus 1988, Lenora Qereqeretabua was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening’s program.
