Date: 08 Jan 2026
Continuing a Legacy of Women’s Leadership
For Frances Qounadovu, leadership is not something she discovered; it is her inheritance. Born in Waiqanake, Suva, with maternal roots in Wailevu Tunuloa, Cakaudrove, Frances grew up in a family grounded in service and activism. Today, she resides in Koroivonu Settlement, Wailekutu, where she serves her community and landowning unit in Lami with unwavering commitment and pride.
Frances’ leadership journey began in childhood, guided by her late mother, Asela Naisara, a feminist and human rights activist.
“Growing up, we followed our mother everywhere. She taught us to serve, to advocate, and to uplift women. After she passed, we carried her work forward. Empowerment became part of who we are. That foundation shaped Frances into a leader who works humbly yet tirelessly for women, families, and communities. Over the years, she has taken on multiple leadership roles – as a member of Lami District Council of Social Services (DCOSS); a committee leader with a local community-based organisation, Team Lead for Mama Ashe Projects; and a FemLINK Pacific Correspondent covering Lami, Suva, Nausori, Rewa, Tailevu, Naitasiri, and Ovalau. For more than a decade, Frances has championed grassroots for women’s empowerment, humanitarian support, and inclusive leadership.
Programs like Balance of Power’s and Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) ‘Women’s Leadership Pipeline’ and ‘Women in Politics’ have further amplified her journey, strengthening her confidence, knowledge, and networks.
“These programs also built communication skills and the ability to see things from different perspectives. They strengthened my networking and my ability to support other women.”
For Frances, leadership is never a solo spotlight; it is collective, a ladder to lift others as you climb. She speaks proudly of the culture of succession within Lami DCOSS, where women mentor one another and pass the baton forward.
Inspired by political leadership training, Frances dreams of contesting municipal elections once they are restored, and perhaps one day stepping onto the national stage. She is clear-eyed about the challenges:
“The system can be exhausting, but I know I have the ability. It requires preparation, and I am ready.”
She confronts cultural constraints head-on, proving through action that iTaukei women can lead confidently in both community and traditional spaces.
“We can be empowered outside, but when we return home, culture can try to define us. I challenge that. I do my best so no one can say a woman can’t do it.”
Frances believes women lead holistically, carrying the concerns of family, elders, children, and community in every decision.
“Women carry everyone with them. When they lead, they uplift whole communities.”