Traditional Weaving Workshop Empowers Women in Lautoka

Lautoka, Fiji – In a celebration of tradition, creativity, and empowerment, the Lifebread Stay Connected Foundation (Fiji) successfully conducted a four-day Traditional and Contemporary Weaving Workshop from March 4th to March 7th at Tagaloli, Teidamu. The workshop brought together 38 women from communities spanning the Nadi to Ba corridor, with one participant traveling from as far as Rakiraki.

The workshop was focused on traditional weaving techniques using voivoi (dried pandanus leaves). Participants mastered the art of weaving baskets and five different types of traditional mats, including Voli-Koro, Ibe-vaka-Daligana, Ibe Papua, Vaka-bati, and Coco. The program also introduced contemporary adaptations, as several women explored the art of crafting earrings from voivoi leaves, showcasing how traditional materials can be transformed into modern designs.

For many participants, the workshop was more than just a skill-building exercise; it was an opportunity to develop sustainable means of income. Loraini, a participant from Ba, shared her excitement: “This workshop not only introduced me to innovative weaving techniques, but it also sparked fresh ideas on how to effectively package my hand-printed sarongs, garments, and accessories to enhance my small business.”

The event culminated with a High Tea celebration to mark International Women’s Day, where participants, staff, and guests gathered to honor their achievements. A special cake was presented in recognition of their dedication to preserving traditional Fijian crafts while embracing new economic opportunities.

Officiating the event, Vice President Adi Litiana Sovasova of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama Yasana-O-Ba praised the women for their hard work and commitment. She encouraged them to continue honing their craft and seek out further training opportunities to explore innovative approaches to sustainability and income generation.

 

Dorinda Work, Executive Director of Lifebread Stay Connected Foundation (Fiji), emphasized the significance of the workshop in fostering economic empowerment for women. “Through this initiative, we are not only preserving the beauty of our traditional crafts but also equipping women with skills that can transform their lives. It is incredibly inspiring to see their creativity flourish,” she said.

The Traditional Weaving Workshop is part of the Foundation’s Craft Skills courses, designed to provide hands-on training to women from rural communities and informal settlements. Additionally, the Foundation’s Almanah Hope Centre runs various personal development programs, including The CONFIDENT Woman, a flagship initiative supported by Women’s Fund Fiji in collaboration with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) that offers comprehensive life skills training tailored to empower vulnerable women.

For more information on Lifebread Stay Connected Foundation’s programs, visit www.lifebreadfiji.com.