Ms. Beatrice Nast;
Ms. Debra Sadranu;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Members of the Media;
Bula Vinaka and a very good afternoon to you all.
Thank you for the warm and delightful welcome. Naturally, the Western hospitality is beyond compare.
Today, marks an achievement for a dear friend, Beatrice and MeSovu (Fiji) Pte Ltd, as we unveil “MESOVU” – Fiji’s first goat milk soap manufactured out of local organic ingredients. This new product will create a pathway for niche skincare rituals and “high-end” emptors in the spa industry.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have known Beatrice for a number of years and her passion for the development of grassroots community – especially women, shows her outstanding leadership qualities in her domain.
Today, we’re unveiling two years of determination, tirelessness and most importantly commitment.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
After months of heavyheartedness, we are – within this closely connected community, celebrating the success of a woman who is creating opportunities for other women – so I thank you Beatrice for being an accurate representation of an empowered woman, empowering other women.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This is the time to look for opportunities. Opportunities that can fill untapped markets and demands – and I am thankful to Beatrice and her team for embarking upon “MESOVU”.
I am told, consumer preferences remain preferred towards natural and organic products – which is well-timed to today’s release of “MESOVU” – a product which will, in the coming days retail in souvenir shops and be without match in high end resorts as an alternative to coconut soaps.
Independently championed by Beatrice, “MESOVU” will employ two soap makers in January next year, and is supplied goat milk from three farms, which will extend to five farms to ensure guaranteed supply of goat milk – to meet growing demands.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The goat milk sourced for “MESOVU” will engage local goat farmers and virgin coconut oil producers as main suppliers, which will mean keeping Fijian communities employed and given the opportunity, to generate income and safeguard an important niche resource.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In coming days, we look forward to welcoming “MESOVU” to the Fijian Made – Buy Fijian Campaign to join others that have given the Fijian brand exposure domestically and internationally.
Through the Campaign, the Ministry continues to promote Fijian products and services in the domestic, regional and international markets.
At this juncture, I can candidly say, that the Campaign has reached new heights. We have positioned ourselves to compete in the global market on quality, standards and international best practices, so Beatrice and team we cannot wait for “MESOVU” to be a part of the Fijian Made family.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This is an excellent time for Fijian companies to recover, revive and reawaken their commitment towards creating new products. Products our visitors can take back when they leave our shores – that enhance the Fijian Made brand and what it represents.
Ladies and Gentleman,
Coming back to today’s event, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Beatrice and the MeSovu (Fiji) Pte Ltd team for having confidence in Fiji and our people. I’d particularly like to acknowledge your continued desire and resourcefulness.
I’m certain this gives confidence to other Fijian businesses to persevere with their research and development and introduce inventive and innovative products.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I strongly encourage other businesses to continue growing their businesses and maintain the Fijian brand recognition – something we’re truly proud of. This is the time not only to produce more local, but to buy local.
In addition, I would like to encourage goat farmers to consider goat milk production as an alternative source of income to support their livelihood.
Coming back to today’s event, it is my pleasure to launch “MESOVU”. I once again congratulate Beatrice and the MeSovu (Fiji) Pte Ltd team for the job well done.
Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu.