Showing the arts passed down through generations, the Women's Expo opened its doors today, where 400 women are proudly displaying the beautiful traditions inherited from their foremothers.
From hand-crafted heirlooms to time-honoured practices, these remarkable women are honouring the legacy of their ancestos by keeping their beautiful gifts alive and weaving them into the fabric of modern lives.
The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran, said the expo provided women the opportunity to display the beautiful traditions of their ancestors.
“I would like to say I know that today you are not only here just for economic empowerment or to share your trade; you are here bringing to us the beautiful traditions of our ancestors, beautiful traditions, the gifts that our foremothers have given to us that you have continued to pass on to your generations,” Minister Kiran said.
She said the expo was a platform for women artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their skills, expand their networks, and access capacity-building opportunities that would enable them to thrive economically.
“It is a space where we celebrate not only the creativity but also resilience in overcoming challenges and breaking barriers."
"I must say that in coming together to weave the magic that the gifts of our ancestors have given that could be turned into potential economic drivers is a way of also keeping our traditions alive.”
The First Lady, Madam Emily Lalabalavu, said the expo was a significant platform to connect women to sustainable economic opportunities and strategies for the future.
“This expo is one of the ways that the ministry is creating and supplying the domestic and global market to assist our women in marketing their products to support their livelihoods and the well-being of their families and communities,” Madam Lalabalavu said.
“It's about breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes so that all women and girls can participate fully in all aspects of life, including education, work, and decision-making at all levels.”
The 3-day expo at the Vodafone Arena will conclude on Friday, March 7, 2025.