By Dr. Mere Tuisalalo Samisoni Pacific Regionalism and Climate Change: New Opportunities for ADFIP ADFIP contributions to women empowerment By Dr. Mere Tuisalalo Samisoni Chair, Corporate Management Services Limited T/A The Hot Bread Kitchen; Samisoni Enterprises Limited and Solar Pacific Fiji Nadi, Fiji - 21st November 2016

Financial empowerment Introduction Financial empowerment

The case for democratic process Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good. For in doing good there are seasons when to reap and when to have faith in each other. Do not lose heart. Our season is yet to come as there is more work to do.”

Exit Polls 53% of men voted for Trump while 41% voted for Clinton 63% of white men chose Trump 72% of non-college educated white men voted Trump Not only men elected Trump – (white) women voted for Trump too 42% of women And 53% of white women voted for him.

Women make up 50% of the population worldwide are a human capital niche market. Not go into denial, in dominant patriarch societies where the glass ceiling is very much in place worldwide, to high cost and human detriment. 2015 Global Gender Gap Report by WEF – Fiji (Columbia & Philippines) have more females than male senior officials, managers and legislators. Ratio in Fiji – 51% to 49%.

Women empowerment Empowerment. 50% representation of women at all levels of management and Board included.

Mother my first Teacher

Franchise Model Set up in February 1981 25 outlets Over 500 employees Turnover - $23m with a 10% NPAT Ready to move into the region

Research & Development Samisoni, (2009) Research on Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Success in Fiji. What are their implications? Entrepreneurship Opportunity Innovation Change from old to new

Global Opportunities Avaaz global campaign network of 44 million - 18 countries, 16 continents, 17 languages Give safe space to thrive Experts say the smartest way to sustain humanity, women empowerment included, is to give them safe space to thrive, then nature uses its wisdom to regenerate.

Summary Focus on human values and aspirations Directing loan policies for entrepreneurial business to empower women Good over evil, increasing right over wrong Be kind and respectful to all

Nature and nurture can restore harmony Conclusion Nature and nurture can restore harmony