Everybody has a story to tell
EVERYBODY has a story to tell, but sharing yours requires a lot of bravery, particularly in Fiji, where there are still many people who do not fully recognise and value the spirit of our women and girls.
We Fijians are fighters at heart, and we will put up a fierce battle for our family and kids.
As advocates for Drug Free Fiji, we focus on "Living for a Purpose," and I urge my fellow women to stand up for what's right and to value themselves.
Like planting a seed, you have to nurture it until it grows into a powerful tree. Similarly, to develop our strength as women, we must own our lives, share our unique stories, and acknowledge that we are capable of shaping the best possible future for ourselves (SOW - Share, Own, Worth).
Undoubtedly, I am incredibly grateful and honoured to have the chance to stand in honour of the many women who came before me and the incredible and important job that they have accomplished here in Fiji.
As survivors of drug addiction and the founder of Drug Free Fiji, it is crucial that we not only speak for but also actively support gender equality and women's empowerment. Delivering from a place of compassion causes amazing things to happen; miracles happen.
Sharing your own experiences and standing out for the voiceless in Fiji is incredibly powerful.
We have personally witnessed the devastating effects of drugs across the nation, and the bulk of those who have perished are women and girls — our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, sisters, and other persons.