Let us be reminded that our fight against gender inequalities is not about getting ahead of men but standing right next to them. It should never be about the woman that stands behind a successful man but it should always be about a great man that acknowledges the incredible woman standing right next to him. Gender equality makes our communities safer and healthier, so today, let’s all pledge to make our fight to achieve gender equality a 'human issue' and not a 'women’s issue'."
These were the words of the Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Veena Bhatnagar, as she officiated at the Sanatan Nari Sabha International Women’s Day celebration, which was held at the Nav Durga temple in Nasinu yesterday (13/03/22).
"A woman can be so many different things but an empowered woman will be able to make a difference not only in her life but in the many lives that are connected to her. Promoting a woman’s self-worth and their ability to do things based on their own choices and their right to influence social change for themselves and others, is a crucial aspect in our fight to achieve gender equality”, added Assistant Minister Bhatnagar.
"We, women, are the embodiment of power, “Hum Nari Shakti haye” and the importance of this realisation should be your focus. The day you realise your worth, your capacity, your capability and your value, you will be much empowered, and this empowerment will take you towards success."
"Speaking about the Sanatan Nari Sabha, Assistant Minister Bhatnagar, said the great work carried out by all the Nari Sabha members, your will and enthusiasm in making sure women are empowered is commendable and today’s celebration is a testimony to that commitment. I applaud your efforts to build a better society through women's empowerment. Remember, empowered women will empower women! Our solidarity as women is our greatest weapon when we talk about gender equality and we must never forget that!"
Members of the Sanatan Nari Sabha of the Central Division convened to celebrate their achievements whilst also reflecting on how far Fijian women have progressed and contributed, not just towards the livelihoods of their respective families, but also in their various communities.
Speaking at the event, 55-year-old, Mrs Veena Narayan, and President of the Sanatan Nari Sabha Central Division Women's Group, said that there are more than one hundred and seventy women members at their branch.
"We are celebrating our contribution to our nation, communities and families. Sanatan is working closely with the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation in promoting awareness on Gender Equality and Ending Violence Against Women and Girls in Fiji. We thank the Ministry of Women for the work that has been carried out for all our Fijian women and also we acknowledge the presence of Assistant Minister Bhatnagar to celebrate this International Women's Day with our members."