WITH exactly one week to go before the WIN Convention 2026, the spotlight this week turns to three remarkable women whose journeys, leadership and voices will shape the conversations that matter most.
As anticipation builds for this milestone five-year celebration of the Women Invigorating the Nation (WIN) platform, the 2026 Convention continues to bring together women who are not only leaders in their fields, but changemakers shaping Fiji and the Pacific’s future.This week, we profile three extraordinary speakers who embody the Convention theme: “Give to Gain: Investing in Women, Transform Our Future.”
Lynda Tabuya – Leading with purpose and policy
Fiji’s Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya represents a powerful blend of policy leadership and grassroots advocacy.
From her roots in Kadavu to the national stage, Minister Tabuya has consistently championed environmental stewardship, gender equality and the protection of vulnerable communities.
Her work spans legal, academic and political spheres—each grounded in a commitment to justice and inclusion.
A mother, grandmother and fierce advocate for women and youth, she brings a deeply personal and purposeful lens to leadership.
Minister Tabuya will officially open the WIN Convention 2026 on Friday March 27, setting the tone for two days of impactful dialogue, collaboration and inspiration.
Ziena Jalil – Global leadership with Pacific heart
An internationally recognised leader, Ziena Jalil brings over two decades of experience across diplomacy, business and governance.
Her career has taken her across New Zealand, Asia and the Pacific, where she has built trusted relationships and led high-impact initiatives in complex environments.
A recipient of the 2025 Silver Stevie Award for Female Executive of the Year, Ziena is widely respected for her ability to influence systems and drive inclusive change.
Beyond her professional achievements, she is deeply committed to mentoring women and young leaders—particularly Māori, Pacific and ethnic communities—supporting the next generation to step confidently into leadership.
Ziena Jalil will be one to hear as the closing keynote speaker, bringing the Convention to a powerful close on Saturday after two days of bold conversations and shared vision.
Hosanna Kabakoro – Community, culture and courage
Hosanna Kabakoro’s leadership is rooted in service, culture and community.
As co-founder of the South Pacific Foundation for Rural and Maritime Development, she has led initiatives that directly impact communities—from disaster relief efforts to improving access to clean water.
Her advocacy extends to critical social issues, including ending domestic violence and promoting men’s mental health.
Balancing her role as a mother of four with her entrepreneurial and community work, Hosanna embodies the strength and resilience of women navigating multiple responsibilities.
Her connection to traditional leadership as part of a chiefly family further shapes her approach, bridging modern development with cultural integrity.
At WIN 2026, Hosanna will also take the stage as part of the dynamic debate team in the much-anticipated session: “A Hand That Rocks the Cradle Can’t Rock the Boardroom.”
This engaging and thought-provoking debate promises to challenge perspectives and spark meaningful dialogue.
As the countdown continues, these women represent more than speakers—they represent the future we are building.
From boardrooms to villages, from policy tables to grassroots initiatives, their stories remind us that when women are invested in, empowered, and given space to lead—entire communities thrive.
With just one week to go, WIN Convention 2026 is set to be a powerful gathering of voices, vision and action.
FIONA DANSEY is the Coordinator for the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council, one of the councils under the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation. The views expressed here do not reflect the views of this newspaper. To learn more about or register for WIN Convention 2026 email Fiona Dansey on webc@fcef.com.fj
