Ms. Debra Sadranu;
Mr. Vetaia Sadranu;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Members of the Media;
Bula Vinaka and a very good afternoon to you all.
Thank you for the warm and tremendous welcome. As always, the Western hospitality is unmatched.
Today, marks yet another achievement for the Essence Group Fiji, as we launch the VS men’s skincare hydration formula. This new product has taken Essence of Fiji to a new level – not just for women, but for men.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I’ve known Debra for a number of years and her passion for health and wellness is highly commendable.
What started off as a passion for skin care in 2014, has today grown into a health and wellness business.
In 2015, the Group launched the $1 million Essence of Fiji Rejuvenation Centre. Today – it is the first international accredited therapy academy in the Pacific. The courses are accredited with CIDESCO international. It’s because of her efforts, we now offer a new range of skills, allowing Fijians to work both locally and internationally.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This is the time to look for opportunities. Opportunities that can fill untapped markets and demands.
Being goal driven, Essence Fiji Group embarked on establishing the World’s first sustainable “nama” harvesting programme in collaboration with Market Development Facility.
Through research and development, they’re able to organically harvest “nama”, which is a key ingredient of the exclusive skincare range.
The Nama is sourced from the villages of the Yasawa group. This has continued to provide jobs for the villagers during this time of pandemic. These communities have been given an opportunity to generate income and safeguard an important natural resource in a pristine environment.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Companies, such as Essence of Fiji, have given the Fijian brand exposure domestically and internationally.
Essence of Fiji has a total of sixty-nine products branded ‘Fijian Made’ under the ‘Fijian Made – Buy Fijian’ Campaign. The Campaign, like many other pro-growth policy initiatives of the Fijian Government, is for all Fijians, to create a resilient and strong economy from within.
Through the Campaign, the Ministry continues to promote Fijian products and services in the domestic, regional and international markets. And I’m sure we can all agree – there’s a different sense of patriotism when you see local products overseas or even on TV.
The Campaign has reached new heights. We have positioned ourselves to compete in the global market on quality, standards and international best practices.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Just a few weeks ago, the Parliament endorsed the 2020-2021 National Budget. The budget sets the foundation of the revival of the Fijian economy through innovative, inclusive and forward-looking policies. It is for the betterment of all Fijians – to stimulate economic activities from within and to fill the void of falling investment and consumption.
We’ve made starting a business easier for Fijians. As you would have heard, from 1 August 2020 – you don’t need to apply for a business license. You can, just from the comfort of your home, register your business and your tax ID – and you’re ready to start your business.
So, this is a perfect time for Fijian companies focus their efforts in Fiji and the region. With commitment, partnership and a whole lot of national pride, we have the ability to produce world class products and enhance the Fijian Made brand and what it represents.
Ladies and Gentleman,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Debra, Vetaia and the Essence Fiji team for having confidence in Fiji. I’d especially like to acknowledge your continued passion and creative new ideas.
I’m sure this gives confidence to other Fijian businesses to continue their research and development and introduce innovative and creative products.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I strongly encourage other businesses to as passionately continue building their businesses and maintain the Fijian brand recognition – something we’re all so proud of.
This is the time not only to produce more local, but to buy local.
With these words, it is my pleasure to launch the VS Men’s Skincare hydrating brand. I once again congratulate Essence Fiji for the job well done.
Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu.