Development for our women in football
Twenty-one women from the Southern Division participated in the Oceania Football Confederation’s (OFC) Women’s Capacity Building Programme workshop in Vatuwaqa, Suva, this week.
The programme was to develop personal and professional skills of women in Pacific Island communities who are interested in working or volunteering in football.
The two-day event was facilitated by Lavenia Yolovi, Vani Buadromo, Maraia Waqairatavo and consisted of representatives from Navua, Lami, Suva, Nasinu, Rewa, Tailevu/Naitasiri and Tailevu North.
Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) board member Susan Wise was also present along with the organisation’s technical staff and the OFC Just Play team. Participant Filomena Liki said she left the workshop empowered. “It provided me with time to reflect on myself, my family and leadership role in the community,” Liki told Fiji FA Media. “While I’m currently unem- ployed, it was motivating to know that there are other employment options for me.”
Laisani Matele acknowledged how the activities helped her identify areas she needed to improve on.
“In terms of my leadership, I’ve learned how to delegate responsibilities to ease pressure on myself,” she told Fiji FA Media.
“It also showed me different ways to balance my family, work and personal life.”
Fiji Football Association’s (Fiji FA) media officer Avikash Chand said the way the workshop was conducted is beneficial for the development of women.
“To specifically have a capacity building workshop for women and facilitated by women is a blessing in itself,” the veteran photojournalist said.
“The atmosphere of the event has allowed the group to share, laugh and openly express in a safe environment, while learning how they can best contribute to girls’ development in life through football.
“We would like to thank the OFC and Women’s Football development officer, Emma Evans, for supporting us with this initiative.”