The Women in Business Council (WEBC), under the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), delivered another successful WIN Convention 2026 under the theme “Give to Gain: Investing in Women, Transform our Future.”

Over two days, the Convention brought together leaders from across business, government, and development partners to engage in meaningful dialogue on advancing women’s participation in leadership, strengthening enterprise, and driving inclusive economic growth in Fiji.

The Convention opened with a strong strategic message – that investing in women is not only a social imperative, but sound business practice. Participants were challenged to rethink the concept of giving, recognising that sustainable impact requires shared value, clear boundaries, and intentional investment.

Across sessions, a recurring theme emerged: moving from intent to action. Discussions highlighted that while progress is being made – including shifts in financial systems where gender is increasingly considered in lending decisions – there remains a critical need to translate policy commitments into practical support mechanisms, especially for women-led MSMEs. As noted during the Convention, policy is promise, but practice is power.

Conversations also addressed the realities women face in leadership – from structural and cultural barriers to the need for greater visibility, confidence, and advocacy. Speakers emphasised that while women must be prepared to step forward and claim opportunities, organisations equally have a responsibility to create environments where women can lead without compromise. The role of male allies and sponsors in opening doors and supporting progression was highlighted as essential to accelerating change.

A powerful debate challenged perceptions around caregiving and leadership, reinforcing that care responsibilities are not a limitation, but a reflection of skills that are critical in leadership roles. The discussion underscored the importance of redesigning systems to better support women balancing multiple roles.

Sessions on branding, wellbeing, and digital transformation further reinforced the need for adaptability in a changing environment. Participants were encouraged to own their narrative, invest in their wellbeing, and embrace digital tools and innovation as enablers of growth. The message was clear – success today requires both personal resilience and the ability to adapt to evolving business landscapes.

The Convention concluded with a forward-looking keynote, challenging participants to think beyond representation and towards influence. It is not only about having a seat at the table, but about shaping the table – and ensuring others are brought along. With global gender parity still decades away, the call to action was urgent: leadership must be intentional, and change must happen now.

The Convention closed with the WIN Gala Dinner and Green Star Awards, recognising individuals and organisations demonstrating leadership, innovation, and commitment to progress.

FCEF is proud to support WEBC in delivering a platform that strengthens leadership capability, fosters enterprise, and contributes to the broader mission of protecting, promoting, and preserving good governance, free enterprise, and commerce for the economic development of Fiji.

WIN Convention 2026 reinforced a clear message – progress will not come from conversation alone, but from the actions that follow.