Date: 03 Sep 2025
Balance of Power has partnered with femLINKpacific and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) to deliver She Leads – Women in Politics Training, a series of trainings to support women’s pathways into politics. This program is designed to equip women from different backgrounds with the skills, knowledge and confidence to participate in Fiji’s political processes.
The training program began from 18th to 22nd August 2025 in Lautoka, Ba and Labasa, with sessions focused on leadership, public speaking, campaign messaging, self-awareness and campaign planning, including budgeting, setting objectives, developing core messages, and identifying stakeholders.
Participants were also trained on addressing potential threats faced by women candidates such as online abuse, hate speech, cyberbullying and violence. The second round was conducted from 25th to 30th August 2025 in Levuka, Nadi and Sigatoka. The final phases will take place in Savusavu, Rakiraki, Tavua, Navua, Lami, Suva, Nasinu and Nausori.
The program provides women with tailored training, mentorship and peer networks to build their confidence and readiness to contest elections, recognizing that when women step into leadership roles, they are expected to influence community perceptions and contribute to more inclusive governance across the country.
She Leads covers 22 modules under two main themes: Building Confidence and Elections and Voter Engagement. Topics include leadership, campaign messaging, fundraising, political party dynamics, voter outreach, and practical strategies for navigating political challenges. Post-training follow-ups will ensure women continue to receive support as they integrate their learning into practice.
This initiative supports the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) priorities specifically the new Gender Equality Strategy 2025. It also aligns with Fiji’s National Development Plan (Pillar 2: People Empowerment), the Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, all of which focus on stronger representation of women in leadership and governance.
Through She Leads, women across Fiji are being empowered to confidently engage in leadership and political processes, strengthening their ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to Fiji’s democratic development.
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