Close to 30 Fijian cultural producers are participating in specialised training designed to build on their existing trade skills and provide support for the launch of a national industry association for performing artists.
The training, which begins today in Suva, Fiji, is made possible with the financial support of the European Union and the assistance of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group of states through the “Enhancing the Pacific Cultural Industries: Fiji, Samoa and Solomon Islands” project, implemented by the Pacific Community (SPC) in collaboration with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS).
The cultural industries in Fiji represent an important economic sector tied to tourism, heritage and culture.
This training is being conducted in partnership with the Fiji Department of Heritage and Arts and the Fiji Arts Council and aims to assist performing artists to professionalise and grow their businesses, improve artist welfare, understand business negotiations, and set standards for the industry.
The programme will also provide a platform for the formalisation and launch of the Fiji Islands Performing Artists Alliance, a new industry association to develop the sector in Fiji.
“This training will focus specifically on performing artists including dancers, musicians, spoken-word artists and theatre stakeholders,” the Deputy Director of SPC’s Social Development Division, Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago-Elisara, said.
“Through formal presentations, panels and facilitated discussions, the training will provide performing artists with an opportunity to discuss critical issues in the sector’s development,” Ms Toelupe Tago-Elisara added.
The UN Conference on Trade and Development reported that the global market for cultural and creative industries topped USD 624 billion in 2011, demonstrating the power of the sector when properly harnessed.
This training follows the completion of five other cultural industries entrepreneurship trainings conducted in Fiji, Samoa and Solomon Islands by SPC and government partners, with the support of PIFS and the European Union.
The training, taking place at SPC’s Suva Regional Office in Nabua, concludes tomorrow (20 January).
Media contacts
Jessie McComb, Culture Officer, [email protected] or +679 337 9495
Luisa Mavoa, SPC Project Administrator, [email protected] or +679 337 0733
Jordie Kilby – PIFS Communications Adviser – [email protected] or +679 322 0348