The Fiji Development Bank organized the 2023 National Small and Medium Enterprise Awards at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva last Thursday, honoring the achievements, innovation, resilience, and growth of SMEs, as well as their significant contributions to Fiji’s economic development. The event saw participation from various stakeholders, including representatives from the government, financial institutions, employer organizations, and the private sector, all demonstrating their support for this vital sector of the local economy.
The winners of the awards included:
1. Best Agribusiness SME of the Year – Avish Poultry Farms, Labasa
2. Sustainable SME of the Year – Star Hospitality Company Pte Ltd, Nadi
3. Youth Entrepreneur of the Year – Futuristic Farm, Tavua
4. Woman Entrepreneur of the Year – Celeste Kennedy – The House of Beauty, Lautoka
5. Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year – Tikosaya Ledua, Ledua’s Art Collection, Suva
6. Businessperson of the Year – Debra Sadranu, Essence Group Fiji Ltd
7. Best Cooperative SME of the Year – Tavoro Forest Park Co-operative Ltd, Taveuni
8. Best Maritime SME of the Year – Saunitoga Enterprise Pte Ltd, Ovalau
9. National SME of the Year – Essence Group Fiji Ltd