Paulina Naturaga is determined to support her husband, who has been the primary provider for their family for the last 20 years. The resident of Naivaka, Nawakasiga in Bua was one of 15 Public Rental Board (PRB) tenants from Simla in Lautoka who recently graduated with a Certificate of Participation in Financial Literacy.
This three-day training program was organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in partnership with the PRB. As a mother of two, Ms. Naturaga reflected on her educational journey, noting her completion of Year 12 at Nadi SKM College. She initially worked at a pizza restaurant before becoming a machinist at Ghimli Textiles, where she remained until the business closed in 2006. With her spouse working as an electrician, she aspires to take on additional responsibilities at home.
Ms. Naturaga stated that the training has been instrumental in expanding her knowledge and realizing her business ambitions. “I want to venture into skills-based businesses like fabric and tie-dye,” she expressed.
This training marked the first literacy program for PRB tenants in the western region, with more sessions set to occur for tenants in Nadi and Lautoka in the near future. Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa extended congratulations to the participants and encouraged them to implement their newly acquired knowledge in their daily lives.
“The training offers vital insights into business management, financial literacy, and market connections, aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while creating networking opportunities,” stated Mr. Nalumisa. He also highlighted the comprehensive topics covered in the training, which included marketing strategies, business culture, recordkeeping, cash flow management, pricing, and profitability.