Posted on April, 15 2025

As the founding president of the Veilomani Women’s Group since its establishment in 2013, Paulina has guided the group through humble beginnings to becoming a model of community-led development in one of the most remote parts of Fiji.

In the early days, access to basic supplies meant long and difficult journeys by sea and land to reach Labasa town. But through persistence and unity, the women of Nabouono, under Paulina’s leadership, now own a boat—enabling them to pilot themselves to Qaranivai landing site to collect supplies for their village shop and attend to medical emergencies.

Paulina also serves as the Tikina Women’s Representative for Udu, advocating for women’s voices in broader district-level decision-making. Her leadership has seen the group initiate vital projects, from ensuring proper waste disposal systems to beautifying and maintaining their community hall with handmade mats. Their efforts reflect a strong spirit of self-reliance and pride in their identity.
Paulina credits the success of the women’s group to the unwavering backing of their traditional leader, the Tui Drano, and to the collective strength of the women who continue to rise to every challenge. As they prepare to host the upcoming provincial meeting, Paulina remains committed to ensuring her community thrives—driven by unity, innovation, and the determination of the women of Nabouono.