Women in the Pacific, especially in Fiji, have to stop the tendency of proving themselves and believe in the enormous potential they have to tackle any challenges of life.
This was the powerful message from the Events and Operations Manager of the Fijian Drua, Eleina McDonald at the International Women’s Day celebrations at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Lautoka Campus on March 7.
Professional women from different workspaces were part of this IWD event, which deliberated on various strategies to empower young women and girls in our society. Discussions primarily centred around the theme of this year’s IWD “Accelerate Action”.
McDonald highlighted that when it came to women empowerment, women were still having to prove themselves and their capabilities to undertake any prominent role in an organisation or the society.
She emphasised that it was now time for women to believe in themselves and accelerate their action.
The second guest speaker at the event, Empower Pacific Operations Manager, Mereisi Tavaiqia stressed that although women have come a long way in the fight for equality, women’s health and wellbeing where significant barriers that still existed.
Tavaqia pointed out that as we celebrate IWD, it was crucial to highlight the significance of mental wellbeing for women and girls.
“Mental health plays a vital role in overall well being, yet it is often overlooked in women and girls due to societal norms, responsibilities and stress,” she said.
“Neglecting mental health can have long term consequences, affecting personal life, family and society as a whole.
“Research suggests the women tend to overthink more than men, making them more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
“The social and cultural pressures they face often worsen their mental wellbeing, making it essential to create a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.”
