“You have the power to change the narrative.” That was the rallying call from Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran as she opened the inaugural Women in Media Conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel last week.
Speaking to a room of journalists, broadcasters, and regional media professionals, Kiran praised the strength and sacrifice of women in the industry.
“In the evolving media landscape, your hard work is often hijacked, overlooked, or undervalued,” she said. “But through your stories, women are empowered not just to speak up, but to lead. How you portray women in media is crucial to changing public perception and with that, shaping policy and leadership.”
Held under the theme “Resilience in a Rapidly Evolving Media Landscape,” the two-day conference marks a major milestone for the Women in Media Fiji movement, which began in 2022 and has since gained regional traction.
“Only five percent of women are on boards, and five percent are in parliament. That needs to change,” she said. “Women are already making decisions every day in homes, in communities. They deserve to do so in boardrooms and newsrooms too.”
She also called attention to rising threats faced by women in the profession, particularly online harassment and gender-based digital violence. “This is unacceptable. We must stand up against it.”
Co-founder of Women in Media and President of the Fijian Media Association, Rosi Doviverata, described the moment as both emotional and historic. “It’s been a challenging journey with a very small team, but we’re humbled by the overwhelming support from newsrooms and our male allies,” she said. “This is about working together to create change not just here, but across the region.”
Doviverata noted the significance of Pacific solidarity, with interest already expressed from colleagues in the Solomon Islands and Tonga to replicate the model. “We hope this creates a ripple effect. Even if it doesn’t start big, it starts.”
She also delivered a heartfelt message to women unable to attend, especially those unwell. “This is your platform. We’ve started the journey now it’s up to you to carry it forward.”
The conference included further discussions centered on leadership pathways, media safety, regional collaboration, and closing the gender pay gap.