Kiran calls for support groups and mentorship to drive women's progress

Is it possible to create support groups for domestic violence, for new mothers - mentorship for leadership in each of our spaces, you can't imagine how these small steps will help with progress.

This has been highlighted by Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran while opening the 2025 Women Invigorating the Nation Convention at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

She says if each one of us tries simple actionable items in our spaces, those simple achievable targets will have ripple effects across the nation.

Kiran also paid tribute to the contributions of Fiji’s foremothers such as late Amelia Rokotuivuna and late Taufa Vakatale, and the women who paved the way for the current generation.

She says we should also remember the women from farms, villages, and those whose struggles have allowed us to be here today.

The Minister also says we often wonder why only 9 percent of women have made it to Parliament or 35 percent on boards.

She says Fiji Chartered Accountants Association has 40 percent women members, yet only two serve on their council.

Kiran says we must ask ourselves how can we push women into leadership roles in our local spaces.

She says only then will we see these numbers reflected in national spaces and leadership positions.

The WIN Convention, an annual gathering organized by the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council under the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, serves as a platform for women to explore new opportunities, gain insights, and strengthen their networks in business and beyond.

This year’s theme is "Championing Inclusivity and Blazing New Trails for the Future".