Mr. Azad Hassan and family,
Community Members of Sakoca, Tamavua,
Invited Guests,
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bula Vinaka, and a very good evening to you all.
It gives me great pleasure to join you this evening to be part of a very hardworking gentleman’s accomplishment.
When I think about small businesses, I have a special sentiment – because it means we are supporting a local community and empowering budding business owners like Azad to progress.
Azad’s business venture “Wrong Turn Corner Shop” which will serve not only the people of this community, but also all those who will be visiting Sakoca.
In a small business, there is no 9am to 5pm routine – you are “on-the-go” the whole time, but we must always take notice of many of our large companies which began this way.
We must learn the lessons of their success – so, look around and you will see the part small firms are playing in economic recovery and creating jobs.
Today, I want to pay tribute to the work and achievements of Azad and his family, the team at the Fijian Development Bank and the Ministry, which is certainly not small – but is most definitely businesslike.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Fijian Government believes in small businesses because small businesses encourage the creation of jobs, wealth, embody independence and are the roots of a free society.
I am told, this new business will be selling general grocery items, frozen goods and confectionery 7 days a week. Driven by Azad and his spouse – the family owned business plans to create employment once diversified into a bakery business and wholesale business in the near future.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
There are many things we can learn from Azad’s journey as a simple man from Seaqaqa who came to Suva 17 years ago in search of greater opportunities. Coming from an agricultural background, Azad’s early days in Suva was one about perseverance and hard-work.
Being employed as a service station attendant, Azad has always dreamt of owning something of his own – and today we are celebrating this achievement and a dream come true.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today isn’t about long speeches and reminding everyone of the eminent achievements of the Fijian Government – which you all are aware of, it is about creating a new culture of entrepreneurship and empowering job creators like Azad. This is why the Fijian Government gives so much attention to the promotion of small businesses as such.
I would like to warmly congratulate Azad and his for this significant investment in Sakoca, which I am sure the community of Tamavua will enjoy.
Vinaka Vakalevu.