SWEET Sip has officially launched its first shop at MHCC mall in Suva, this past Monday, bringing a new selection of refreshing beverages and rolled ice cream to the community. During the opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications Manoa Kamikamica handed over a grant of $30,000 from the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) to the owners, Rajnel Kumar and Aachaal Reddy.
Kamikamica praised the entrepreneurial spirit of the duo, stating that their journey began with a mobile dessert cart that served rolled ice cream at various festivals and pop-up markets. Their hard work and creativity have resonated with the local community, quickly turning Sweet Sip into a beloved addition to Suva’s culinary scene. The grant facilitated their dream of establishing a physical store by enabling them to purchase essential equipment.
Kamikamica highlighted the significant contributions of various organizations that supported their venture, including the Fiji Development Bank, BSP Fiji, and Business Assistance Fiji (BAF), which all played an instrumental role during challenging periods, especially during COVID-19. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in creating an ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship and innovation.
Encouraging the youth, Kamikamica urged them to view Sweet Sip as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, stating that they should start small and think big. The YES program aims to empower young individuals with innovative ideas, providing them with the necessary support to develop sustainable business ventures.
This opening signals a growing trend of young entrepreneurs in Fiji taking their ideas from concept to reality, showcasing their commitment to resilience and innovation. As they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, the support from government initiatives like YES offers hope for a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. With more young people inspired to pursue their dreams, Fiji’s economic landscape may increasingly thrive through innovative businesses and community engagement.
Leave a comment