SOUTH Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Fiji has disbursed $FJD 150 million in loans to women entrepreneurs across the country since its 2010 launch.
The achievement was marked by the disbursement of a $FJD 10,900 loan to entrepreneur Sulita Vanabale, which carried the organisation beyond the $150 million mark.
Speaking at the celebration, SPBD Fiji Managing Director Lorraine Seeto said the milestone represented far more than a financial achievement.
“This achievement is a story of courage, determination, resilience and transformation,” Seeto said.
“It represents thousands of women who dared to dream, who worked tirelessly to build businesses, support their families, educate their children, improve their homes and create brighter futures for their communities.”
SPBD Fiji was established in November 2010 to provide financial services to women with limited access to traditional banking services. Since then, it has grown into Fiji’s largest microfinance institution, serving nearly 8000 members nationwide.
Seeto said the organisation remained committed to empowering women through access to finance, business training, financial literacy programmes and savings initiatives.
“At SPBD, we have always believed that when you empower a woman, you empower a family. When you empower a family, you strengthen a community, and when communities prosper, the nation prospers,” she said.
The milestone was reached through SPBD Fiji’s Nausori Branch, which serves women entrepreneurs in Tailevu and surrounding areas.
Seeto acknowledged the contributions of staff, members and partners across Fiji and the wider Pacific, saying the achievement reflected years of dedication and commitment to improving livelihoods.
The recipient of the milestone loan, Vanabale, joined SPBD in 2023 and received her first loan of $1,500.
A single mother and baker from Naitasiri, she operates Vanabale Enterprise, producing buns, bread, pizzas, cookies and muffins from her home business in Nadawa, outside Fiji’s capital, Suva.
SPBD officials said Vanabale’s business has grown steadily through hard work, strong savings habits and financial discipline.
Her attendance at centre meetings and commitment to savings have also made her a role model among fellow members.
“Her story represents what SPBD stands for—empowering women to take ownership of their economic future and contribute meaningfully to their families and society,” SPBD said.
Vanabale encouraged other women to take advantage of opportunities available through SPBD, saying nothing is impossible with determination and commitment.
Seeto said the organisation would continue expanding financial inclusion and supporting women entrepreneurs throughout Fiji.
“The $150 million milestone is not the destination—it is another step in our journey,” she said.
“We will continue to believe in the power of women to transform lives.”
