MORE than 100 girls from the Central Division got together to mark International Day of the Girl Child with a special Peace-building Sports Day hosted by the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) in Suva on Saturday.
Held under the theme “She Plays, She Leads, She Builds Peace,” the event celebrated girl power, leadership, and teamwork through sports — providing a safe, inclusive space for young girls to challenge gender stereotypes and inspire change.
In a statement, FWRM executive director Nalini Singh said the event was more than just a fun day.
“Sports teaches us teamwork, respect, resilience and trust — the same values needed to building peace in our families, in schools and in our communities,” Ms Singh said.
“When girls play, they learn to lead. When girls lead, they inspire others to challenge inequality.
“And when girls come together in solidarity, they build peace.”
The participants were also inspired by Fijiana 7s captain Rusila Nagasau, who urged them to dream big.
“Not everyone can become teachers, not everyone can become doctors,” Nagasau told the girls.
“Tell yourself that one day you will reach your goal. You can be the best in the world only if you believe in yourself.”
Fiji Deaf Women’s Rugby player Lusi Rokonamarama, an FWRM GIRLS Program graduate, also shared her journey of confidence and triumph after helping her team win gold in Australia.
The day also featured a rugby clinic by the Fiji Rugby Union, mindfulness exercises by Asinate Korocowiri, fire safety awareness by National Fire Authority officers, dances, chants, and a Pinktober moment of silence for girls lost to cancer.
The event was supported by the Australian Government in partnership with the International Women’s Development Agency.
