Date: 08 Jan 2026
Advocating for Women as a Male Ally in Governance
In Fiji’s evolving civic space, male allies play a crucial role in supporting women’s leadership and community governance. Mosese Baseisei, a long-time advocate for women’s empowerment and former Chair of Lautoka District Council of Social Services (DCOSS), embodies this commitment shaped by his childhood, faith, and deep roots in grassroots’ work.
Mosese’s engagement with Femlink Pacific began in 2020, during a time when bold feminist mobilisation had brought visibility to rural women and Indo-Fijian cane-farming women. He acknowledges the courage of feminist leaders who made sure diverse voices, including those from LGBTQI communities, were heard and valued.
His journey with the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) began in childhood, following in his mother’s footsteps in community service. For Mosese, governance is never just a top-down exercise; it must reflect the realities of communities and grow from collective action.
“Good governance is cakacaka vata working together. You cannot only advocate at the top. You must make noise from the grassroots.”
He highlights FCOSS’s unique role in connecting communities with district, divisional, and national government structures, aware that access to information and networks is something many community members often don’t have.
Through his work with FCOSS networks and community-based organisations, Mosese has seen the powerful leadership potential of women, which often remains unrecognized and untapped. He reflects pride on reviving Lautoka DCOSS, where women’s leadership was central to its success.
“What fueled Lautoka DCOSS was the power of women. Transformation for women must never stop.”
Mosese notes ongoing challenges, such as duplication of services and externally driven programs, which can undermine women’s leadership work. He advocates for locally led development and stronger coordination between women’s organisations in the West and across Fiji.
“Communities should not be spoon-fed. Strength must grow from the grassroots. Big donor agencies must listen to what is already here.”
He calls for a shared vision among civil society actors to prevent fragmentation and strengthen support for women. Grounded in his Christian upbringing, Mosese sees men as crucial partners in advancing women’s leadership and wellbeing.
“Men must support women at all levels. When women are unsupported, families suffer. Empowering women uplifts everyone.”
Today, Mosese balances teaching young minds at the University of Fiji with mentoring women in communities, supporting them as they grow into leadership roles.
Mosese’s story reminds us of the vital role male allies can play in advancing women’s leadership, strengthening governance, and building inclusive civic ecosystems where women’s voices help shape both community and national futures.