The official launching of WISE Tonga Inc., a new association of women entrepreneurs, would greatly encourage and inspire women in Tonga to take up business ventures to help the Tongan economy and their families, the Minister of Education, Women's Affairs and Culture, Hon Dr 'Ana Taufe'ulungaki, said on Saturday.

She was the guest speaker at the launching of Women in Sustainable enterprises (WISE) Tonga Inc., which aims to create greater business opportunities by building networks and encouraging women in their enterprises. A successful launch Market Day on July 23, showcased the enterprises of women, at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall.

Hon Dr 'Ana Taufe'ulungaki said there were many kinds of work that women in Tonga could take up to earn a living for their families and children, which would ensure that every child has the opportunity to go to school.

She said she was certain that the learning experience and networking that would be exchanged between members of the association would greatly encourage and inspire women in Tonga to take up more business ventures which would not only help the Tongan economy but, most importantly, improve the livelihoods of families.

"It is very heartfelt for me to see that you did not wait for assistance from government or overseas but that Tongans themselves initiated this work to develop Tonga," she said.

WISE Tonga Inc.

Robina Nakao, the founding President of WISE Tonga Inc., said that in these difficult economic times it takes courage to make a commitment to doing business in Tonga.

"Women in Tonga are all heart with the intellectual capacity, creativity, and resilience to realise their dreams and aspirations, and business is an ideal catalyse for women to express their entrepreneurial spirit," she said.

The enthusiasm and drive of WISE Tonga Board had given birth to an active organization that today has over 140 foundation members and they hoped many more would join.

"WISE Tonga is working to achieve its objectives by facilitating better outcomes for its members on their business journey. What we see here today is a clear demonstration of a shared vision in solidarity for sustainable growth, no matter how small or how complex our enterprises may be," Robina said.

Lee Miller, WISE Deputy President in thanking the sponsors, said that everyone had a great day. There were 39 formal sector booths with about 15 informal exhibitors from various villages or women groups.

Special guests at the event included the 'Ikale Tahi coach 'Isitolo Maka and team members who as well as four of the Miss Heilala contestants.

WISE was formed as an incorporated body in July 2010 and welcomes a diverse membership from both formal and informal sectors including business leaders and home entrepreneurs.

Many attending the Market Day and Showcase event hoped that it would become an annual fixture.