FIJI (Suva) – Basketball Fiji ignited the spirit of International Women's Day on March 8 by hosting a vibrant and impactful Her World, Her Rules event in collaboration with Girls Only Connections.
Her World Her Rules (HWHR), is a cornerstone grassroots initiative of FIBA's global Women in Basketball Strategy with a core focus on dismantling barriers and fostering a welcoming and empowering environment for girls and women in the basketball.
With over 100 participants in attendance the program feature on International Women’s Day highlighted the passion for basketball in Suva alongside a shared desire by all to elevate the sport.
"International Women’s Day was a powerful reminder of why programs like HWHR exist,” Girls Only Connections (GO Connections) Founder, Dale Wise said. “Seeing so many girls come together, play basketball, and support one another was incredible. It wasn’t just about the sport—it was about confidence, empowerment, and creating a space where girls feel valued. The joy on their faces and their enthusiasm showed that when given the opportunity, girls embrace the game wholeheartedly. It was a special moment to witness their passion and potential in action, especially considering basketball has been a minor sport, the kind of support we received was amazing.”
As part of the HWHR initiative, the day's central aim was to introduce girls aged 6 to 15 to the joys of basketball and instill in them the sense of empowerment that comes with participation.
The day unfolded with a series of engaging activities, including fun-filled games, skill-enhancing drills, and valuable lessons emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and teamwork. This provided a fantastic platform for the girls to hone their abilities, forge new friendships, and deeply connect with the program's core values of empowerment, inclusivity, and community spirit.
"The future is bright for girls’ grassroots basketball in Fiji. With continued support, these programs will not only grow but also shape strong, confident young women,” Ms Wise said. “Basketball teaches teamwork, discipline, and leadership—skills that go far beyond the court. By investing in grassroots initiatives, we’re not just developing athletes; we’re empowering the next generation to be leaders in their communities and the spaces they enter."
The more accessible and sustainable these programs become, the more girls will have opportunities to thrive, both in sport and in life.
The resounding success of the Her World, Her Rules event underscores Basketball Fiji's commitment to supporting women in basketball. It's evident that the program's influence will continue to expand, inspiring an increasing number of girls to embrace the world of basketball. Highlighting the crucial role of such initiatives, Ms Wise emphasised,
"Programs like GO Connections and HWHR are vital because they break down barriers for girls in sport. In many communities, access to structured training and competition is limited, especially for young girls. These initiatives create safe, inclusive environments where girls can develop their skills and build confidence. They also provide mentorship, representation, and pathways for further development. Without these programs, many girls might never have the chance to experience the benefits of basketball, so it’s crucial to keep them growing.”
Basketball Fiji's dedication to fostering a love for the game and empowering young women through initiatives like Her World, Her Rules paints a promising picture for the future of girls' basketball in the nation.
Basketball in Fiji is powered up with the support of the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports and Team Up in conjunction with FIBA in Oceania and the FIBA Foundation.