Derived from the Latin word Augere, the month of August literally means “to increase”. Certainly, this resonates well for a call out to increase awareness on a very topical subject matter of Breastfeeding. The International Breastfeeding week which is held from 1st to 7th August every year must be appreciated and celebrated.
A chilly morning in Canberra relishing a coffee and croissant combination, I reminiscence the beginning of the week on 1st August at the British High Commission Residence in Suva, Fiji. It was an evening of inspirational speakers and empowering women sharing their experiences on a subject matter that is not advocated to the extent to which it should be.
The New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Ms Charlotte Darlow, shared her experiences on breastfeeding and highlighted on the need for requesting to create a conducive environment at work for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. 
I must admit that I was so emotionally touched by the “unsung heroes” behind Pacific Doula Services Pte Limited, a pregnancy care centre based in Suva. It was the first I heard about this institution and I am sure that most would not know who a Doula is. A Doula is a skilled, non-medical companion who assists a woman before, during and after childbirth. Debra shared the experience of pregnant women especially during the pandemic whereby some missed clinic after clinic, the fear of not choosing to get vaccinated with anxiety of baby’s health and early Labor amidst the pandemic anxiety resulting in premature babies. It was truly emotional to hear of the challenges pregnant women faced. Pacific Doula Services Pte Limited provides online support for pregnant ladies to get through each feed so baby can attach to breast and support to get breast milk to baby. It was so inspiring to hear Debra and the great work that her team are undertaking at Pacific Doula Services Pte Limited.
The New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Ms Charlotte Darlow, shared her experiences on breastfeeding and highlighted on the need for requesting to create a conducive environment at work for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
A 16-year-old student from the International Secondary School in Suva, Fiji shared her inspiring school project whereby she aims to enhance the knowledge of Fijian mid wives and is teaming up with relevant agencies to host a midwifery conference for two days in August in the Northern Division. Joy is such an inspiration at a young age to many.
The surprise element of the evening was the inaugural breastfeeding friendly fashion show in Fiji. Curated by the creative director for Style Maya, Cynthia Cebujano, the models showcased an assortment of attires ranging from maternity wear to corporate jumpsuits and even a bridal outfit just perfect for breastfeeding mothers. “Maya” in Greek means Good Mother and Cynthia Cebujano is role model as an aspiring MOMpreneur.
The inspiration behind MAYA is Cynthia’s trials and tribulations as a breastfeeding mother and a cancer survivor. It was an emotional state of affairs as Cynthia narrated her journey of being hospitalized for 3 consecutive years, due to child loss & early stage of cervical cancer. Whilst being hospitalized, she observed that in the hospitals and even in public places, mothers and cancer patients were mostly semi-naked, unpresentable and uncomfortable. 
It was the thought process which led Cynthia to create awareness about Cancer and curate a Fashion Line that is an inspiration and empowerment to women. The start-up of her online business was not easy. She linked up with a sponsor Soleya who assisted her to engage in research and sample development for her emerging Fashion Line. Attending a number of business workshops and being awarded a seed-grant funding from Pacific Greenpreneur Program, Cynthia continued to expand her business.
The amazing features of the MAYA range is that it offers hidden feeding access, covered chest and stomach accompanied by a elastic Bra support. All outfits have deep Pockets on both sides with no buttons and no zips for easy access. All the outfits are wash and wear with stretchable and presentable fabric. Cynthia was conscious of in producing an assorted range of clothing with the following unique features to help women have a more convenient life as they engage in their varied roles as a mother and entrepreneur. 
Cynthia plans to collaborate with NGO’s, women’s groups and plans to supply to retail shops locally and internationally. Deliveries are done by EMS and Helpmate with payments handled via M.Paisa, MyCash and internet banking. Do visit the social media pages of Style Maya and create the awareness.
Many thanks to the British High Commission in Suva Fiji for kick-starting the month of August on such an inspiring note and providing the platform to the amazing women to inspire, advocate and uplift other fellow women. Source: The “A” Connection
