Page 7 - SPBD Businesswoman of the Year Award 2023

SPBD

A MESSAGE FROM LORRAINE SEETO

Chief Judge and SPBD Fiji Board Director

This year’s Businesswoman of the Year awards is a provided education for children, improved living conditions,
celebration of the power of dreams, hard work, and the and inspire others to follow in your footsteps.
unbreakable spirit that each SPBD member embodies.
As the Chief Judge with my fellow judges, we have witnessed
SPBD members have demonstrated that when given the firsthand the incredible talent, creativity and vision that each
right support, women can transform their families, uplift of you bring to the table. Choosing the winners has been a
communities and contribute to the economic development of very difficult task this year. Each finalist has demonstrated
our nation. extraordinary qualities that make them deserving of
SPBD has been a vital partner in that transformation, recognition.
providing opportunities that allow women to rise and fulfil As we recognise the best of the best, let us not forget that
their potential. every woman is a winner. You are shaping a new narrative,

To the finalists and all those who have won awards in the where women are seen as powerful leaders, change makers,
seven categories, you are the shining stars of what it means and role models.
to embrace challenges and turn them into opportunities. Your We, the judges, thank the esteemed finalists in all the
journey has not been easy, and yet you are stronger, more categories for your warm hospitality and we have articulated
determined, and more successful than ever. Through shared your concerns and areas of improvement to the SPBD
determination, you have broken barriers. Some of you have management.
broken glass ceilings and shown us that there is no limit to We also take this opportunity to thank the SPBD leadership
what women can achieve when they are empowered.
team led by Greg Casagrande and Elrico Munoz, for giving us
To all SPBD members, your collective effort is a testament to the opportunity to be part of this impactful journey.
the transformative power of microfinance and the spirit of Together, we are creating a legacy of empowered women
women who despite the odds refuse to give up. You are all who still continue to make a profound difference in their
pioneers of change, showing us that true success is not just communities, and in doing so, we are shaping the future of
measured by financial gain, but by the positive impact we our country. Thank you and congratulations to you all.
make on those around us. Your businesses, your leadership,
and your resilience have lifted families out of poverty,

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