Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) has proudly received the prestigious International Council for Small Businesses (ICSB) LightHouse Award, a significant recognition of its ongoing commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) throughout Fiji. This accolade, awarded for the first time to BAF since it became an ICSB member in 2022, acknowledges the organization’s dedicated efforts in fostering grassroots development and economic empowerment.

The ICSB LightHouse Awards celebrate organizations that play crucial roles in promoting and supporting small enterprises, which form the backbone of local economies. The award symbolizes the guidance necessary for MSMEs to successfully navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, much like a lighthouse provides direction to sailors in stormy seas.

Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, ICBS’s president and CEO, expressed great enthusiasm for BAF’s recognition, highlighting its strong focus on micro-businesses and grassroots economic development. He emphasized how BAF’s initiatives align closely with international best practices, which enhance the potential for Fijian businesses to thrive in the global marketplace.

Ramesh Chand, BAF’s General Manager, conveyed gratitude for the award, attributing it to the hard work of the BAF team and the transformative impact that MSMEs have on local communities. He reaffirmed BAF’s commitment to creating tailored programs that effectively address the unique challenges faced by micro-businesses, promoting innovation and resilience.

In addition to their core initiatives, BAF has launched new programs aimed at empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth-led enterprises. These efforts align with BAF’s overarching mission to foster inclusivity within the business environment and reflect a broader commitment to sustainable economic growth.

The receipt of the ICSB LightHouse Award signifies a hopeful outlook for the future of the MSME sector in Fiji. It underscores the critical importance of supporting small businesses, which are vital for sustained economic resilience and innovation. As BAF continues its efforts to nurture local entrepreneurs and foster conditions for their success, there remains an optimistic sentiment for the enhancement and expansion of Fiji’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In summary, BAF’s achievement of the ICSB LightHouse Award not only marks a proud moment for the organization but also serves as a beacon of hope for MSMEs throughout Fiji, emphasizing the transformative potential of robust support for small businesses and encouraging further growth and collaboration within the region’s economy.