FHTA Tourism Talanoa: Celebrating Women in Tourism

Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, 6 March 2025 – International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of the contributions, struggles, and successes of women across all industries.

Here in Fiji, where tourism is the backbone of our economy, it is our women—whether in housekeeping or the boardroom—who help drive this industry forward.

The theme for IWD 2025, Accelerate Action, is an urgent call to push forward the progress on gender equality, and we at the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) stand firmly behind this mission.

We know that without women, our industry wouldn’t be what it is today.

We also know that despite the vital roles they play, many still face barriers that slow down their professional and personal growth.

At the current pace, achieving gender parity is estimated to take until 2158—five generations from now.

This is simply unacceptable!

If we want meaningful change, we must act with we must act with unwavering urgency and resolute purpose. Every moment counts, and the gender parity mission demands nothing less than our full commitment and relentless determination.

So today, we celebrate, acknowledge, and commit to strengthening our support for the women who make up the heart of Fiji’s tourism sector.

Tourism contributes significantly to Fiji’s economy, with holidaymakers alone spending over FJD 524 million annually.

But what often gets overlooked is the workforce behind those numbers.

From the women welcoming guests at the airport to the chefs preparing world-class meals, and from the front office managers ensuring smooth hotel operations to the dive instructors showcasing our pristine waters—Fiji’s tourism industry thrives because of women at every level.

Whether they are flying in our visitors, bartenders crafting innovative cocktails, spa therapists providing relaxation, housekeepers preparing your room, or corporate leaders strategizing the future of Fiji’s hospitality sector, women are a driving force in every aspect of the visitor experience.

Their skills, dedication, and resilience shape the reputation of Fiji as a world-class destination.

As FHTA, we see this first-hand.

More than half of our own team is made up of women, and as a female-led organization, we are committed to ensuring that women in tourism have the support, training, and opportunities they deserve.

Despite their significant contributions, women in tourism continue to face challenges—whether it’s access to leadership roles, balancing work and family responsibilities, or overcoming outdated stereotypes about what jobs they can or should do.

The industry has made significant strides in bridging this gap and proudly celebrates how it leads the way on this subject, but we recognise that we still have a long way to go.

That’s why FHTA continues to push forward with training programs and capacity-building initiatives that ensure women are at the forefront of the positive changes happening within our industry.

Whether it’s skills training for housekeeping staff, leadership development for female managers, or fostering entrepreneurship among women in tourism businesses, we are committed to accelerating action where it matters most.

We have seen what works, and we believe in doing more of it—faster.

Training, mentorship, and inclusive policies make a tangible difference in the lives of women across our industry, and it is up to all of us to sustain that momentum.

This International Women’s Day, we salute the women working tirelessly across all levels of tourism.

To the women in housekeeping and maintenance, ensuring guests experience comfort and cleanliness—we see you.

To the front office staff, tour guides, and airport representatives, offering warm smiles and seamless service—we appreciate you.

To the chefs, restaurant staff, and baristas, crafting unforgettable culinary experiences—we thank you.

To the dive instructors, cultural performers, and adventure guides, sharing the beauty of Fiji with the world—we celebrate you.

To the business owners, general managers, and executives making strategic decisions for the industry’s future—we stand with you.

Every woman in tourism plays a crucial role in shaping the experiences of visitors and keeping our economy strong.

Their work may often go unnoticed, but today, we make sure it doesn’t.

Achieving gender equality isn’t just about recognizing women’s achievements; it’s about creating environments where they can thrive without limitations.

It requires collective action from businesses, organizations, and individuals.

While we are committed to advocating for policies that support women’s growth in the tourism sector, from equal pay and leadership opportunities to flexible work arrangements and workplace safety; we also call on our policymakers to step up by committing to increasing the number of women sitting on boards, holding positions as Directors, Permanent Secretaries and Ministers, as well as being nominated for positions in statutory bodies.

We call on our members and industry partners to do the same.

Imagine a nation where gender is never a barrier to success, a workforce where opportunities are based on skill and dedication and not outdated biases!

Imagine a s culture where women are empowered, supported, and celebrated every day, not just on International Women’s Day.

We are not willing to wait until 2158 for that vision to become a reality. We choose to Accelerate Action—starting now.

To every woman in tourism, we see you, we appreciate you, and we stand with you.

To every woman out there with a dream, we’re paving the way for you and ensuring our policymakers step on the pedal.

Happy International Women’s Day!
Fantasha Lockington – CEO, FHTA (Published in the Fiji Times on 6 March 2025)