A group of 23 individuals in the Northern Division has successfully completed a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping them for the next steps in their small business ventures. This initiative, known as the Welfare Graduation Program, included 11 social welfare recipients and 12 welfare officers, focusing on economic empowerment and fostering financial independence among participants.
The program aims to significantly reduce long-term reliance on social welfare by preparing participants for an upcoming seeding phase in their business initiatives. Over a span of three and a half days, participants learned essential aspects of entrepreneurship, which included business planning, savings, budgeting, marketing strategies, pricing, stock record keeping, and cash flow management.
Revoni Rakasalu, the Provincial Administrator for Macuata, acknowledged the program’s significance in enhancing financial resilience and community strength. He emphasized the positive enthusiasm shown by the participants, particularly the 11 social welfare recipients, which he believes indicates a strong potential for this program to effect lasting change.
This initiative aligns with earlier related programs, such as those organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, which have successfully provided employment and business opportunities for vulnerable populations in Fiji. For instance, similar training programs have engaged young people in establishing their own businesses after gaining valuable skills in various fields such as hairdressing, culinary arts, and tour guiding. Participants in these programs often emerge with renewed hope and purpose, showcasing the profound impact such initiatives can have in shifting lives toward a more positive trajectory.
As the community rallies behind these efforts, the hope is that through education and support, participants will not only achieve personal success but also contribute positively to their communities, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship that empowers many.
For the future, there are aspirations for further training sessions and support programs to extend this momentum, providing continuous opportunities for skill enhancement, therefore reinforcing confidence and capability within these communities.
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