Page 5 - SPBD Businesswoman of the Year Award 2023

SPBD

A MESSAGE FROM RATU WILIAME KATONIVERE

Chief Guest and former President of Fiji

The event is more than just an award presentation, it’s
about honouring resilience, creativity, and dedication of the
women who are transforming their lives and uplifting their
families, communities and our beloved nation. I applaud the
SPBD network and its Fiji agency because of the progressive
opportunities, as well as the potential for growth for women
in microenterprise in Fiji.

The theme of this year’s awards, ‘Women-led
Microenterprises Enriching Lives and Building Futures’, is a
powerful and fitting reflection of the transformative impact
that women are making in Fiji’s socio-economic landscape.
The holistic nature of women-led enterprises, which often
focus on creating sustainable livelihoods, addressing social
challenges, and nurturing the next generation, is clear.
The theme underscores the idea that when women are
empowered economically, they become key agents of change,
fostering prosperity for future generations.
The achievements of the nominees serve as powerful
reminders of the limitless potential that lies within each
one of us when given the right opportunities. Through the
invaluable support of SPBD, you have been able to turn your
dreams into thriving businesses. Your courage to take that
first step towards financial independence is an inspiration to
us all. In doing so, you’ve empowered yourselves and the next
generation.
As a tool for empowering women, many microenterprises are This is an excellent achievement. We look forward to seeing
operated by women, especially through initiatives like SPBD, more branches throughout Fiji, particularly in the maritime
which provides microloans to help female entrepreneurs areas where access to finance is even more crucial for women.
build their businesses by providing opportunities for financial
independence and economic participation. These businesses I also wish to congratulate SPBD for reaching the remarkable
are key to alleviating poverty and enhancing gender equality FJ$100 million milestone in loan disbursements this year. It’s
in Fiji. heartening to know that our very own Fiji Development Bank
particularly funds this unprecedented accomplishment.
MSMEs account for approximately 18% of Fiji’s GDP and
employ over 60% of the workforce. This sector comprises To the executive management of SPBD, vinaka vakalevu for
82% of registered businesses, emphasising its role in Fiji’s your commitment in providing opportunities for our women.
economic structure. With over 30,000 registered MSMEs, Your support has opened doors and provided resources
the sector is seen as the backbone of the economy, driving nearer to our women to shine. Together, we are building a
growth, fostering innovation and encouraging diversification, more inclusive and prosperous Fiji.
particularly in the rural areas. To the finalists of this year’s awards, your individual success
SPBD’s sustained growth is impressive. I recall opening the stories are a consolidation of perseverance, determination,
SPBD Labasa branch on April 20, 2017. The expansion was and hope. You are proof that with vision, hard work, and the
part of SPBD’s initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in right support, anything is possible. The road to success is
the north through microfinance. I understand that the Labasa never easy, but you have shown us that when you’re guided
office has expanded to accommodate the growing needs of by purpose, you can overcome any obstacle.
the women micro-entrepreneurs in the Macuata province. May God bless you all and may God bless Fiji.

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