MARAIWAI DESIGNS WAY TO COP23
Wati Maraiwai’s creation on a piece of masi (tapa) has won her a place at the global climate change Conference of Parties (COP) 23 in Germany.
This is no surprise as Ms Maraiwai, 29 is from Kabara in the Lau Group, whose women are traditional masi makers.
Ms Maraiwai, a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Public Administration graduate, opted to give up her job to pursue her passion for masi making, painting and creating pieces. One of her designed masi was taken to Kazakhstan by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, as a Fijian contribution on the world stage during the Fijian National Day at the Astana (Kazakh capital) Expo on ‘Future Energy’.
“This is something imbedded in me, as early as I can remember masi making has been part of me,” Ms Maraiwai said.
“My mother and aunt have an influence in this decision to concentrate on masi making, as I used to help them in their orders while still in school and university. I just naturally fitted in,” she said.
“They inspired me to expand into other areas as well.”
Another masi designed by Ms Maraiwai is currently on display at the My FNPF Plaza in Suva where people can write simple messages for the COP23. The same will be displayed at the Pre-COP23 conference next week in Nadi and then at the COP23 conference in Bonn, Germany, next month from the 6th to 17th.
Ms Maraiwai is a member of the Fiji Arts Council.
She also designs traditional iTaukei bridal wear.
It was when she was a member of the Adi Cakobau School’s social club that she learned most of her masi designs and decorating skills.
Ms Maraiwai is thankful to the Fiji Arts Council for the opportunity to design the masi for the COP23 conference.
“When I was told my designs will go to Kazakhstan and the COP23 conference, I could not believe it. It came to me as a shock because I felt there were more talented and experienced women with better designs than mine. I felt proud of myself that at 29, I have achieved the recognition of my work to have my designs showcased at an international platform,” she said. “My inspiration came from my mother and aunt who design masi as a family business that after graduation I had joined them to help them.
“I used their designs to make masi wedding gowns for brides and grooms. “I am proud of what I do. I have no regrets in giving up my career to showcase the Fijian culture at an international platform,” Ms Maraiwai said. She is encouraging youngsters and other passionate designers to pursue their dreams and showcase their talents.