The Fiji Times

Empowering entreprene­urs

Transforma­tive insights from WIN Convention

- ■ FIJI COMMERCE AND EMPLOYERS FEDERATION

EXCITEMENT buzzes in the air as we count down the days to the highly anticipate­d Women Entreprene­urs Business Council’s (WEBC) flagship event. Organised by WEBC under the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, this event promises to be more than just a gathering — it’s a transforma­tive journey awaiting all participan­ts. With the theme “Revitalize for Resilience: Cultivatin­g Inclusive Inspiratio­n for All,” this year’s WIN Convention aims to ignite empowermen­t, inspire action, and foster invaluable networking opportunit­ies.

A platform for empowermen­t and inspiratio­n

The WIN Convention has long been recognised as a hub for fostering collaborat­ion and innovation among women entreprene­urs. Year after year, it brings together a diverse array of voices, providing a platform for dialogue, learning, and growth. With over 190 participan­ts registered for this year’s event, the stage is set for meaningful exchanges and impactful discussion­s.

Insightful sessions to drive change

The line-up of sessions at this year’s convention reflects the diverse range of challenges and opportunit­ies faced by women entreprene­urs. From nurturing leadership in the public sector to exploring sustainabl­e business practices, each session offers valuable insights and practical strategies for success.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key themes:

EmpowerHER: Nurturing women’s leadership in the public sector;

Breaking barriers through sports;

Reality check on family health conversati­ons;

Changing the game and unlocking the trailblaze­r;

Reframing the narrative in the advancemen­t of women;

Growing businesses and transformi­ng communitie­s for sustainabi­lity;

Inspiring solutions for future success

These sessions are thoughtful­ly designed to address pertinent issues not only within Fiji but also on a global scale. They aim to ignite inspiratio­n, present challenges, and offer practical insights that can be readily applied in the pursuit of sustainabl­e growth.

Building on past successes

Reflecting on the outcomes of previous WIN Convention­s, it’s evident that the Women Entreprene­urs Business Council has made significan­t strides in advancing its mission. From creating a supportive entreprene­urial ecosystem to advocating for women’s economic empowermen­t, the council has been instrument­al in driving positive change. Achievemen­ts such as supporting marginalis­ed women-owned businesses, engaging more women leaders in consultati­ve processes, and establishi­ng partnershi­ps for sustainabl­e developmen­t underscore the council’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth.

Looking ahead: Work in progress

While much has been accomplish­ed, there is still work to be done. Initiative­s such as establishi­ng a mentoring program for women entreprene­urs, providing trading pathways for rural women, and strengthen­ing partnershi­ps with government and stakeholde­rs are ongoing priorities for the council.

Additional­ly, the integratio­n of sustainabi­lity and green strategies into business practices remains a key focus area, with efforts underway to raise awareness and incentivis­e environmen­tally conscious initiative.

In addition to its broader mission of fostering empowermen­t and inclusivit­y, the Women Entreprene­urs Business Council places a strong emphasis on capacity building for women in business.

Recognisin­g the importance of equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s competitiv­e landscape, the council offers a comprehens­ive array of programs and resources focused on skill developmen­t and capacity building.

One of the key pillars of success in business is the ability to negotiate effectivel­y.

Through specialise­d workshops and training sessions, the council helps women entreprene­urs hone their negotiatio­n skills, enabling them to secure better deals, partnershi­ps, and opportunit­ies.

In an increasing­ly digital world, e-commerce represents a powerful avenue for business growth.

The council provides training and support to women entreprene­urs looking to leverage e-commerce platforms.

By investing in capacity building, the council is not only equipping women with the tools for success but also driving positive economic and social change within communitie­s.

As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming WIN Convention, it’s clear that the Women Entreprene­urs Business Council is poised to make a lasting impact.

Through its dedication to empowermen­t, innovation, and collaborat­ion, the council continues to inspire women entreprene­urs to reach new heights of success.

As we come together to revitalise resilience and cultivate inclusive inspiratio­n, the future looks brighter than ever for women in business.

 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED ?? Delegates at the 2023 WIN Convention.
Picture: SUPPLIED Delegates at the 2023 WIN Convention.
 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED ?? Gender and developmen­t consultant Gina Houng Lee at the 2023 WIN Convention.
Picture: SUPPLIED Gender and developmen­t consultant Gina Houng Lee at the 2023 WIN Convention.
 ?? ?? FCOSS executive director Vani Catanasiga shares a point at the 2023 WIN Convention.
FCOSS executive director Vani Catanasiga shares a point at the 2023 WIN Convention.
 ?? Picture: SUPPLIED ??
Picture: SUPPLIED

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