Twenty-one women across from the Southern Division participated in the Fiji Football Association’s Women’s Capacity Building Programme workshop held at Fiji FA Headquarters in Vatuwaqa last week.
The aim of the workshop was to develop personal and professional skills of women in the member association who were 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 alongside 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,” she said.
“While I’m currently unemployed, 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 said.
“It also showed me different ways to balance my family, work and personal life.”
Vani Buadromo said the style of workshop is beneficial for women’s development.
“To specifically have a capacity building workshop for women and facilitated by females is a blessing in itself,” Buadromo 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.”
